Sudden bumps on the tongue might appear due to different reasons. One such lesser-known yet serious reason is due to infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Oral HPV bumps can appear around the tongue and mouth.
These bumps are small, hard, and painless, which can sometimes be confused with herpes (HSV). HPV bumps are of different types, and the effect of each of these types is also different. It is important to understand the causes and types of these bumps so that the right treatment options can be chosen.
In this blog we’ll help you understand about HPV bumps on tongue along with its common causes, types and different treatment options.
What Does Oral HPV Look Like?
If you’re wondering what oral HPV looks like, then below are a few common characteristics of oral HPV:
- Appears on the tongue, back of the tongue, or throat
- Comes in the form of clusters.
- Soft palate bumps on the back of the tongue
- Small white growths
- HPV white bumps on the lips or sometimes on the lip line
If you ever experience sudden bumps on the tongue, then it is best advised to visit an emergency room. At ER of Irving, we offer comprehensive lab testing with quick, accurate results. Feel free to visit our laboratories that are open 24/7.
HPV Types
HPV bumps can appear with different signs. It is important to know about its categories so that they can be spotted instantly. HPV bumps on the tongue can be treated easily if diagnosed during the early stage. Moreover, depending upon the type of human papillomavirus (HPV), a suitable HPV treatment for the tongue can be provided.
Squamous Papilloma
This is one of the most common categories of HPV bumps that appear like a cauliflower-like mass, which are soft, small, and usually painless.
Verruca Vulgaris
This type of HPV bump usually appears on the skin but is sometimes found on lips, the tongue, inner cheeks, and the throat (causing a sore throat). They are rough and thick on the surface.
Condyloma Acuminatum
This type of HPV bump is also known as a venereal wart and is usually large and more clustered in nature. It looks pink and appears as a soft, wart-like bump.
Focal Epithelial Hyperplasia
This type of HPV bump is also known as Heck’s disease and is mostly rare. It is found in other oral cavities and appears in soft, flattened, or round types.
HPV vs. Herpes: Know the Difference
Although HPV and HSV (herpes simplex virus) are viral STIs, they have a few things in common.
| Aspect |
HPV |
Herpes |
| Type of Virus |
It emerges due to the Human papillomavirus |
It happens due to the Herpes simplex virus, and is of two types (Type 1 and 2) |
| Where does it appear? |
It usually appears in the mouth and throat |
It appears in the mouth (HSV-1), genitals (HSV-2) |
| How does it look? |
These are small raised bumps |
These are painful blisters |
| How painful it is? |
Usually painless or mild pain |
Often painful |
How is oral HPV caused?
Oral HPV is caused by different reasons. It can appear due to a virus entering the body through minor cuts, while coming into contact with infected tissue, or by sharing affected utensils or lip balms.
Below are a few common causes of oral HPV:
- From oral contact
- Sexual intercourse
- HPV infection spreading to the tongue
- Poor oral health
- Not HPV vaccinated
- Using alcohol or tobacco
HPV bumps on the tongue or other parts of the body can appear due to many reasons. The initial and most important step is to get it diagnosed. With the right laboratory testing and accurate results, you can get it treated soon.
Can HPV bumps on the lips spread?
Yes, since it is viral, HPV bumps on the lips spread to the mouth and other parts of the body. An HPV infection can spread to the tongue, mouth, lips, and other parts of the body. It mostly appears in the interior region of the mouth, such as on the front or back of the tongue, palate, and inner cheeks.
They become highly contagious, especially when they are active. Although it could be small or painless, if it’s active, then it might spread. Moreover, if you suddenly notice HPV white bumps on your lips, then it’s a clear sign that the virus is active and is spreading.
HPV Bumps Treatment
Small, hard bumps or growths on the tongue or mouth are among the early symptoms of HPV in the mouth. Although HPV bumps are viral and sometimes painful, they have many treatment options, which are both medical and home-based.
Medical Treatment Options
Surgery
HPV bumps on the tongue can be removed with the help of surgery. It can be removed by a dentist, ENT specialist, or oral surgeon.
Therapies
There are different therapies that can treat HPV bumps, such as cryotherapy and laser therapy.
In cryotherapy, the HPV bumps are frozen with the help of liquid nitrogen, which instantly freezes and drops the bumps. It is immensely beneficial for HPV bumps on the lip.
In laser therapy, the HPV-infected bump or tissue is removed with the help of light energy. It is preferred in cases when it is difficult to reach the affected tissue, such as bumps on the back of the tongue HPV-related.
Medications
Medications in the form of creams and gels are prescribed by doctors. It is useful for external genital warts and can also be used for HPV bumps on lips.
Electrosurgery
This surgery is done through electric currents that burn off the bump. Electrosurgery is usually fast and requires local anesthesia, which might result in other side effects.
Natural Way of Healing
Improving the immune system
The immune system can be improved through eating healthy food, staying active, and managing stress.
Avoiding harmful products
Protecting from harmful products such as alcohol, tobacco, and other harmful substances that affect the lesions.
Better Oral Hygiene
Have excellent oral hygiene by avoiding bacterial substances.
Let’s Wrap It Up
Oral HPV bumps are common and often appear as small, hard bumps. Since it is viral, it is important to get it treated. HPV on the tongue, mouth, or lips can be treated with the help of the right and effective treatment.
HPV bumps on your lips, lip line, or back of your tongue should never be ignored. Neglecting its early signs can lead to serious infection, which makes the bumps painful.
HPV bumps can be treated both medically and by making changes to daily routine. Depending upon the severity of the bump, the appropriate treatment can be opted for. By implementing changes to your daily routine, you can avoid the chances of an HPV bump.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the early symptoms of oral HPV?
Small, hard bumps or raised growths are among the early symptoms of HPV bumps.
How to spot the difference between a normal bump and an HPV bump?
Normal bumps are not viral and usually disappear after a few days, whereas HPV bumps can be treated through the right treatment or HPV vaccination.
How to kill HPV naturally?
HPV bumps can also be treated or avoided naturally through a better immune system, improved oral hygiene, and by not having exposure to harmful products.
