Transient Lingual Papillitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Cost

Transient Lingual Papillitis, often known as TLP, is a disorder that causes inflammation of the tongue that is only transient and does not spread to other people. It is also known as 'lie bumps' or 'strawberry tongue' owing to the appearance of red, swollen pimples on the surface of the tongue.

These nicknames come from the look of the condition. Although TLP is most frequently diagnosed in children and teenagers, the condition can affect people of any age.

Acute and recurring cases of transient lingual papillitis (TLP) are distinguished from one another.

• Acute TLP: Acute TLP is the most common type and usually lasts for a few days up to two weeks. It is characterised by sudden onset of pain, burning, and tingling sensations on the tongue. Symptoms often resolve without treatment within a few days.
• Recurrent TLP: Recurrent TLP occurs when episodes of acute TLP occur over weeks, months, or years. This type typically starts with mild symptoms such as burning or tingling sensations on the tongue that gradually worsen over time. The bumps can become larger and may be painful to the touch and even bleed easily when touched or rubbed against teeth or food particles.

• Bacterial infections, such as those caused by the Streptococcus and Staphylococcus bacteria.
• Infections caused by viruses, such as herpes simplex virus and coxsackievirus, among others.
• Allergic reactions to food, medicines, or certain environmental triggers such as pollen.
• Trauma to the tongue due to biting or burning with hot food or drinks.

• Painful, small, white bumps on the tongue
• Swelling of the tongue
• Redness and irritation on the tongue
• Difficulty eating or speaking due to discomfort
• Bad breath and a taste of metal in the mouth are symptoms of this condition.
• Mild fever

• Maintaining proper dental hygiene involves brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and rinsing with an antibiotic mouthwash.
• Drink lots of water to stay hydrated and rinse your mouth after meals.
• Get regular dental checkups and cleanings.

Tests for Transient Lingual Papillitis are:

• Visual examination of the tongue: Check for any lesions, discoloration, swelling, or tenderness, Palpation of the tongue,
• Gently feel the tongue to check for any lumps or bumps that may indicate an underlying condition.
• Cultures: These can help to rule out any other infectious causes such as a virus or bacteria.
• Blood tests: These can help to identify any underlying conditions that may be causing the papillitis, such as nutritional deficiencies or an autoimmune disorder. Blood tests to look for any underlying health issues
• Biopsy: Biopsy of the affected area to rule out other conditions such as cancer or a viral infection

Transient Lingual Papillitis can cause a range of complications, including:

• Inflammatory sores on the tongue that cause discomfort and can make eating and speaking difficult
• An increased risk of developing oral thrush, an infection caused by the fungus Candida
• Swelling or inflammation of the tongue
• Difficulty tasting food due to changes in taste buds
• Secondary bacterial infections that can lead to further complications.

• Sucking on a piece of clove or cardamom can help relieve the pain associated with transient lingual papillitis.
• Applying a mixture of equal parts honey and ginger juice directly to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Gargling several times a day with a solution consisting of warm water, a sprinkle of salt, and a few teaspoons of turmeric powder will help alleviate the discomfort and swelling associated with temporary lingual papillitis.
• Consuming a spoonful of ghee every day can help soothe the affected area and promote healing.
• Drinking aloe vera juice or applying fresh aloe vera juice directly to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and heal the lesions caused by transient lingual papillitis.

• Consume soft foods that are easy to swallow, such as oatmeal, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, yoghourt, and applesauce.
• Consuming a lot of water can assist to keep your mouth moist and will speed up the healing process.
• Rinse your mouth with salt water or a baking soda solution several times a day to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

• Avoid eating spicy, salty, or acidic foods and drinks such as citrus fruits, pickles, chips, and salsa.
• Steer clear of items that are served at a heated temperature or include alcohol, such as coffee, tea, and beverages with carbonation.
• Avoid crunchy or hard foods such as popcorn, nuts and raw vegetables.
• Avoid rough textures such as chips and crackers that can irritate the papillae on the tongue.

Treatment for TLP may involve

• Dietary changes: Eating soft foods and avoiding spicy, acidic, or salty foods may help reduce irritation of the tongue.
• Vitamin supplements: Supplements containing vitamin B12, zinc, and iron may also be recommended to help speed up the healing process.
• Transient Lingual Papillitis surgery: Surgery for transient lingual papillitis typically involves removing the affected tissue with a laser or scalpel, and then cauterising the area to help prevent further irritation. The affected area may also be injected with steroids or antibiotics to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
• Tissue Graft Placement: this may be required to help restore normal tongue function. Following surgical intervention, the majority of patients report feeling a significant improvement in their symptoms and are able to rapidly resume their normal activities.

• To treat this condition, it is recommended to consult with an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist or an oral surgeon.
• It is important for individuals experiencing recurrent episodes of transient lingual papillitis to visit a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

• Antifungal medications: Clotrimazole, fluconazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole, miconazole are major antifungal medications useful for TLP.
• Oral rinses: Oral bacteria can be eradicated with the use of an antiseptic mouthwash, which can be used to rinse the mouth thoroughly. It is essential to make an appointment with a medical professional for additional assessment if the problem continues or gets worse.
• Topical steroids: Your doctor may also recommend a topical steroid to reduce inflammation and discomfort caused by transient lingual papillitis.
• Pain relievers: Pain medicines that are available without a prescription, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can help alleviate any aches or discomfort that are brought on by temporary lingual papillitis.

• In most cases, there is no need for treatment since the condition will clear up on its own within one to two weeks.
• If symptoms do not resolve after two weeks or if they worsen, it is important to seek medical advice from a doctor or dentist for further evaluation and management of the condition.

• No, the results of treatment for Transient Lingual Papillitis are not permanent. Treatment typically relieves symptoms quickly and can help prevent recurrence, but it does not provide a permanent cure.
• It does not provide a permanent cure for the condition.

• Follow any instructions that your doctor or surgeon has given you for post-surgical care. This may include taking antibiotics, pain medications, or any other prescribed medications.
• Keep the area clean and dry by gently washing it with warm water and soap after meals and before bedtime.
• Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times each day to reduce inflammation and swelling, as well as provide some relief from discomfort.
• Refrain from smoking or drinking alcohol during your recovery period as these can also irritate the affected tissues and delay healing time significantly.
• If you experience any unusual symptoms such as fever, increased pain or swelling of the tongue, difficulty swallowing or breathing, contact your healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and treatment if necessary

• Transient Lingual Papillitis treatment cost in India varies depending on the severity and duration of the condition.
• Generally, it can range from 500-3000 INR for diagnosis and medications such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs and antifungal agents.
• In some cases, further treatments like laser therapy or surgery may be required which can increase the overall cost significantly.
• It is advised to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan to ensure successful recovery from Transient Lingual Papillitis.

• No serious side effects have been reported from Transient Lingual Papillitis treatments.
• However, some people may experience temporary soreness, irritation or burning sensation due to the treatment.
• Swallowing difficulties may also occur during treatment, but these usually resolve quickly after the procedure is finished.
• In rare cases, an allergic reaction to the medications used for treatment could occur and should be reported to a healthcare professional immediately.

If you are experiencing any complications that are related to transient lingual papillitis, then you should see a doctor as soon as possible. These complications can include things like loss of complete sensation in your mouth, loss of salivation, etc and the treatment course for them can range from a few days to a few weeks depending on the severity of the situation. If you are experiencing any of these complications, then you should see a doctor as soon as possible.