Had visit with ENT doctor today. Explained the discomfort I am having with the bumps on the side of my tongue. He examined me and did not have to scope me as the area is not at the base of my tongue where the cancer was. He used a mirror and tongue depressor to see the area. He said it was enlarged Circumvallate Papillae.
What are Circumvallate Papillae?
Circumvallate papillae (CP) are bigger than other papillae and are arranged in a v-shaped way in the back of the tongue near the throat. Most people have from 6 to 12 circumvallate papillae.
These papillae are used to taste bitter. These sensors can make a person gag from bad tastes. CP are also called vallate papillae.
They are arranged in two rows and each of them has 1 to 2 mm projections of mucous membranes. These projections are connected at the base of the mucous membranes which is shaped as a circular depression. The edge of the circular depression forms a border called a vallum (wall).
How to Treat Enlarged Papillae ?
Usually enlargement of circumvallate papillae is self treatable but following certain measures can help to accelerate the healing of the condition:
- Licking ice cream or topical application of ice cubes can help to control pain and may also reduce enlargement
- Local administration of cold compression and drinking cold drinks can help to manage the discomfort
- Chewing mint leaves can help inflammation of the tongue
- In the case of throat infections that cause enlargement of circumvallate papillae, you can help it by gargling with salty lukewarm water
- A balanced diet with fruits and vegetables can provide essential vitamins, compensate the vitamin deficiency therefore help to reduce the symptoms
- Adequate water intake can help to flush toxic substances from the mouth and reduce irritation/enlargement of papillae on the tongue
- Antibiotics or antiviral drugs can treat mouth ulcers and viral infections. Topical application of antifungal drugs, analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications can reduce discomfort / decrease enlarged circumvallate papillae
- Multi-vitamin, mineral supplements and a diet rich in vitamin B12 / iron can also be useful in the case of enlarged circumvallate papillae caused by vitamin deficiency
- Different natural oil gurgling such as tea tree oil gurgle or sesame oil gurgle can also be beneficial for fungal and thrush infections
- Good oral hygiene and periodic visits to the dentist can reduce the chances of development of enlarged circumvallate papillae
- Do not bite the tongue, accidental biting or injuries can be treated with topical application of glycerin which helps to reduce the trauma
- Low fat dairy products including yogurt can provide considerable benefits for reduction of enlarged circumvallate papillae by treating thrush infections
- Stop smoking and avoid hot spicy foods for maintenance of good tongue health
- Well fitting dentures can help the tongue
- Drink soups made with ginger, garlic and pepper to help prevent oral infections
I'm going to try different things to see if I can relieve the discomfort in my throat. I return to the ENT in one month.
This is an interesting read. DH is having a squamous cell carcinoma cut off his tongue next week, and is having some pain down his throat. Wondering if what you describe has anything to do with what he is experiencing.
ReplyDeleteVirtual hugs,
Judie
The papillae is not squamous cell carcinoma. What I was previously treated for was SCC at the base of my tongue. Have they given him a plan of action yet? Radiation/chemo? Sending good wishes your way.
DeleteWe go for his appointment in Tucson next Wednesday, but the prognosis from the local doctor was good. Starting yesterday, the pain further down his throat has lessened considerably, so that is a good thing.
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