What are painful bumps on back of tongue making it hard to swallow?
1. Canker sores:
- Small, round, and painful ulcers that can develop on the tongue, gums, or inside of the cheeks.
- Often caused by stress, injury, or certain foods.
2. Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1):
- A common viral infection that can cause oral herpes or cold sores.
- Blisters or sores may appear on the tongue and other parts of the mouth.
3. Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD):
- A viral infection that commonly affects young children.
- Symptoms include fever, sore throat, and painful mouth sores, including on the tongue.
4. Tonsillitis:
- An inflammation of the tonsils, which are located at the back of the throat.
- Swollen tonsils can obstruct swallowing and cause pain in the back of the tongue.
5. Peritonsillar abscess:
- A collection of pus that forms in the space between the tonsil and the throat.
- Causes severe pain, difficulty swallowing, and swelling in the back of the throat.
6. Swollen lymph nodes:
- Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that play a role in the body's immune system.
- When they become swollen, they can cause pain and tenderness in the neck and back of the tongue.
7. Tongue cancer:
- A rare but serious condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain in the tongue, difficulty swallowing, and a lump on the tongue.
If you have painful bumps on the back of your tongue and difficulty swallowing, it's important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. The doctor may recommend medications, lifestyle changes, or medical procedures to address the underlying cause of your symptoms.