Lump under Tongue?

[Dorcas]

Hi can anyone try and put my mind at rest! Yesterday I noticed that one of those little lumps under my tongue at the end of that thin line (soz about not explaining very well) has turned red and looks a lot bigger. I am worried sick regarding it and now wonder how long it has been like that. I am sure it cannot be longer than a few days but unsure. I intend to go to the Doctor or Dentist first thing tomorrow but this weekend seems so long already when you are worried. Sob sob

[MrXLA]

Hi Dorcas,

Just to mention your GP will be more than competent enough,but it might be wise to see your dentist because he/she will more likley know the nature of the lump. Your description by the way is excellent. It could be a number of things most entirely benign in nature but a few questions first:

Is the lump hard? Is it sore or painful? Is it all one colour or speckled in appearance? Does anything you eat or drink irritate it? Are there any swellings anywhere else under your jaw or neck?

Once again try not to worry and of course see your Dr or dentist tommorow and insist you be seen.

[Dorcas]

Hi Mr XLA

Thank you so much for your reply. I am trying not to worry too much!

The lump while not exactly rock hard is also not completely soft. Although the actual lump is not painful where I keep putting my tongue up to look plus touch it with my tongue also seems to have made the area sore.
It seems to be a dark blood colour and I am sure it is a little bigger than yesterday.
I do not appear to have any other swellings in neck or jaw and nothing I have been eating or drinking seems to irrate it.
Thank you so much again

[MrXLA]

Hi Dorcas,

If it isn't sore than it's not likely to be an ulcer, given its colour it may be a 'blood blister', these can enlarge to up to 2cm which is quite large in such a small space. It could also be a localised infection of a salivary duct or blocked salivary duct. Unfortunately I cannot say for certain without seeing the lump. Try not to to touch it, although I realise how difficult this is. Certianly do not attempt to 'pop it'. Once you have been seen tommorow the doctor or dentist will reassure you or refer you to be seen by an oral medicine or maxillofacial specialist. Most of these lumps and bumps are entirely benign in nature. However it pays to be vigilant as you have been. If you have any further questions don't hesistate to ask, Im sat working at my computer for the rest of today and I frequently check this site.

[Dorcas]

Bless your heart Mr XLA.

I cannot thank you enough for your wonderful replies and sound advice. I am going to make an appointment with both my Doctor and Dentist first thing tomorrow so I will let you know the outcome. I promise I will not touch it again and try not to keep looking at it.

By the way do you reckon it is too early to go to bed so morning will be here. I know the answer to that really so I will try and keep busy.

Thank you so very much again .

[Dorcas]

Hi Mr XLA
I just thought I would give you an update. I saw my Doctor today and he is pretty sure it is an infection of the salivary gland that may have occured (I cannot recall an incident) when I either ate something hot or damaged it with my toothbrush. He seemed to think it would go in time but to see him again in a week if not. Although I felt happier I am worrying again about certain things and now wish I had also gone to see my Dentist.

I also have a sore white ulcer inside of my cheek. I have never been prone to ulcers so this is proving painful now when I eat and swallow. Could you tell me if this is linked or has maybe appeared because I feel at the moment so run down and stressed. I will maybe try and get an appointment with my Dentist tomorrow. Also is it wise to try and heal these infections with salt water?

Thank you and sorry I am such a pain