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I Have Found A Patch On My Tongue . I

Posted on Sat, 4 Jul 2020

Question: I have found a patch on my tongue . I don’t know how long it has been here for but I am very scared of cancer . Please let me know what this is

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (1 minute later)

Pictures attached below

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (21 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Mucositis of the tongue

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

I have examined the image thoroughly and I’m of the opinion that the reddish circular patch could be the mucosal inflammation secondary to the sharp molar tooth located on the left lower jaw. Rest of the tongue is absolutely normal.

The friction created by the sharp molar tooth can damage the layer of the tongue causing inflammation. Do not worry! Once the inciting agent is taken care of, the inflammation will subside spontaneously.

I would suggest you to consult a good dentist for further evaluation and management.

Hope this answers your query; I would be available for the following query.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (23 minutes later)

Thankyou doctor I also have sensitive bleeding gums.

I am 12 weeks pregnant and yesterday I found a mouth ulcer on the floor of my mouth. Please tell me if I have oral cancer. I’m very worried. Attached pictures below.

It’s not painful but if I rub my tongue on it it feels raw with only very very minor sting. I’m not sure how long it’s been there for. I only found it yesterday

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (14 hours later)

Brief Answer:
There are no signs of cancer...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Welcome back

Thanks for posting the additional images. I have examined all the images thoroughly and I can confidently say that you don’t have any signs of cancer.

The ulcers in the floor of the mouth is common during stress, vitamin deficiency, intake of hot food/beverages and some medications.

The mucosal erosion over the tongue could be due to constant rubbing of the former over the molar teeth. And, the bleeding gums are coming during pregnancy due to the hormonal changes in the body.

As I had recommended earlier, you should consult an apt Dentist for the thorough evaluation.

My suggestions to you are:
1. Drink frequent sips of lukewarm water.
2. Eat adequate amount of fresh fruits and vegetables.
3. To take antacids available over the counter, if you have any acidity/gastric issues.
4. Finally, avoid stress. Stress can induce more ulcers.

Hope with the above measures, you should get better.

Wish you good health

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (11 hours later)

Hi doctor it looks like my patch is getting bigger? Is there anything I should worry about

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (0 minute later)

I have added a new photo

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Early features of Geographic tongue...Not a sign of oral cancer

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

The mucosa is in fact eroded slight more than the earlier image you have posted. Do not worry! It is a harmless mucosal erosion caused mainly due to the vitamin deficiency. With the adequate intake of vitamins in its natural form such as fresh fruits and vegetables, the mucosa can regrow.

I would like to reassure you that, it is not a sign of oral cancer. This condition of yours is known as 'Geographic tongue'. This is a totally harmless condition.

Wish you good health

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj