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What Causes Small Bump On Tip Of Tongue In A Heavy Smoker?
Question: Hi,
I am 48 yrs old and have recently stopped using smokeless tobacco after 25 years-I have become quite paranoid about oral cancer. I have a tiny bump on the tip of my toungue that I have had for 10+ years that I think is from rubbing on my bottom retainer (that is permanently affixed to the inside of my lower teeth). It is the same color as my toungue (no discoloration) and does not change in size. However i bite it from time to time or irritatie it and it is sensitive for a couple days. However, my mind tends to run away and I am trying to become as healthy as I can now-Probably call it a mid life crisis! Should I be concerned?
I am 48 yrs old and have recently stopped using smokeless tobacco after 25 years-I have become quite paranoid about oral cancer. I have a tiny bump on the tip of my toungue that I have had for 10+ years that I think is from rubbing on my bottom retainer (that is permanently affixed to the inside of my lower teeth). It is the same color as my toungue (no discoloration) and does not change in size. However i bite it from time to time or irritatie it and it is sensitive for a couple days. However, my mind tends to run away and I am trying to become as healthy as I can now-Probably call it a mid life crisis! Should I be concerned?
Brief Answer:
It does not sound like a cancer.
Detailed Answer:
Hello!
Thank you for the query.
Can you please attach a photo of this lump so I can give more precise answer?
Using tobacco for so many years makes you prone to mouth cancer for sure. But I do not think this particular lump is cancer related. Especially that it remains there for 10 years. If it is a cancer, you would not survive that long with it.
When cancer grows, it constantly gets larger. It usually does not hurt until some nerves are not affected or it wont cause obstruction. Cancer surface is usually rough and tends to bleed.
From your description, your lump really does not sound like a cancer.
If it bothers you, please consult laryngologist. It may be removed and tested.
Hope this will help. Feel free to ask further questions.
Regards.
It does not sound like a cancer.
Detailed Answer:
Hello!
Thank you for the query.
Can you please attach a photo of this lump so I can give more precise answer?
Using tobacco for so many years makes you prone to mouth cancer for sure. But I do not think this particular lump is cancer related. Especially that it remains there for 10 years. If it is a cancer, you would not survive that long with it.
When cancer grows, it constantly gets larger. It usually does not hurt until some nerves are not affected or it wont cause obstruction. Cancer surface is usually rough and tends to bleed.
From your description, your lump really does not sound like a cancer.
If it bothers you, please consult laryngologist. It may be removed and tested.
Hope this will help. Feel free to ask further questions.
Regards.
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. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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