Bumps on Back of Tongue: White, Lie, Red, Pictures, Treat

What causes bumps on the back of tongue? Is it due to sore throat, std, strep, cancer or enlarged papillae? Get more insights on the causes, symptoms, treatment and pictures of white, red and big bumps on tongue.

Although bumps on tongue are natural, there is a reason to worry when you notice big, red or white bumps forming at the back of your tongue, on sides and under the tongue. There are many conditions that associate such symptoms, therefore investigation is important to know the causes and hence treatment.
What does bumps on back of tongue mean? Is it normal to have white or red bumps on the back, side or under the tongue? Does a bumpy tongue an indication of a serious underlying health condition or just a simple mild infection? In this post we have an elaborate discussion on the causes, meaning and how to treat with home remedies.
Under normal circumstance bumps on the tongue may go unnoticed if they are harmless. Small bumps located on top or sides of your tongue can give your tongue a rough texture which assist you to eat. These kind of bumps are called fungiform papillae. They tend to increase in size for a number of reasons. Although they aren’t serious, see your healthcare provider if they cause pain, or they are persistent, growing or either spreading.
White bumps or Lie bumps are common and half of us experience these bumps at some point. They are little white or red bumps and appear when the papillae is irritated or inflamed and slightly swollen. The cause is not clear but it can be attributed to stress, hormones or certain nutrition.

What does Bumps on back of Tongue mean?

What does it mean to have odd or raised bumps on back of your tongue? Does it hurt when you swallow or gives you the feeling of something stuck in the throat? As discussed earlier fungiform papillae are bumps that will be visible on the sides and sometimes at the back of the tongue.
About half of the world population at some point in their life experience lie bumps. It is believed that your stress level, hormones or certain foods influences the appearance of bumps in mouth and back of tongue.
Papillae are natural bumps that appear in the mouth and at the back of tongue. However different conditions may change the appearance of the lumps. If you have sinus infection for instance, you will experience huge or enlarged bumps or papillae.  In some people the taste buds are naturally big or enlarge.
A lump or a bump at the back of your tongue could as well indicate a serious health condition such as cancer or mouth problems. Oral cancer or mouth can be in form of oral bumps that are painless and rarely malignant. Bumps in the mouth as a result of cancer are typically reddish or whitish and tend to bleed easily.

How does a bump at the back of your tongue look like? Bumps on your tongue and mouth will appear differently depending on the cause. For instance, if you have oral cancer you will experience reddish or whitish bumps that can easily bleed when irritated.

Why you have Red Bumps on back of your Tongue 

What are the causes of bumps on your tongue and sometimes throat? Natural bumps are harmless and tend to heal on their own with time. However, lumps on your tongue can be as a result of serious underlying health condition such as cancer. Bumps on tongue could be strep, sore throat, oral thrush, STD or canker sores. Below we have covered the possible causes of bumps on back of tongue.

1. Oral cancer

Are red bumps on your tongue a sign of cancer in the mouth and tongue? If you have oral bumps you may not easily tell if they are related to oral cancer or not. However, bumps on the tongue pose a risk of being cancerous and shouldn’t be ignored. If you have oral bumps that often tend to be painless and rarely malignant, then this could be a symptom of cancer in your mouth and back of tongue.
Bumps on back of tongue caused by cancer are typically reddish or white and can bleed easily if slightly irritated. People with lumps on back of tongue are likely to experience ear pain, a sore throat that refuses to go away and numbness in the affected coupled sometimes with bad breath. Other related symptoms associated with bumps on tongue to have been reported include having a difficulty in swallowing or chewing as the bumps generally get painful.

2. Bumpy tongue due to allergy

Oral bumps including those in the mouth and back of tongue can be as a result of allergic reaction. Allergies, especially those to medication and or food can cause your tongue to have raised and uncomfortable red bumps. These odd bumps tend to be larger on back of your tongue and even visible in your throat.
If your tongue gets irritated with either medication or food, bumps will appear immediately within a few minutes of coming into contact with the irritant. Some people will experience swelling on their face from the reaction. Similarly if you are suffering from Oral Allergic Syndrome (OAS), you are prone to have bumps on back of tongue. The symptoms ranges from mild to severe, you should check your condition regularly for possible medical intervention.

3. Oral thrush

Are bumps on back of tongue as a result of oral thrush? Thrush is basically a fungal infection that causes affected tongue to have either a white or a yellow coating to appear on it. Your tongue can get lesions of thrush that can appear anywhere on your tongue including your palate, gums and or the tonsils. The tissues underneath your tongue might be red or white.
Oral thrush can causing bumps or lumps in your mouth and tongue can easily bleed if you scratch the coating away. Thrush tend to appear generally on the insides of the cheeks, gums or the roof of your mouth. Typically, bumps on back of tongue due to oral thrush are painful and may end up affecting your ability to taste. Other symptoms will include enlarged bumps on the tongue which have the ability to multiply.

4. Canker sores

Could bumps on back of tongue caused by canker sores? Canker sores tend to appear on any part of the mouth including your tongue. If you are suffering from canker sores, small ulcers typically with a white or yellow center will appear on your tongue. Usually the ulcers have a red outline and can be painful and swell when irritated or inflamed.
Fortunately, canker sores aren’t contagious. You may use over-the – counter pain reliever to help ease pain and other related symptoms. Canker sore do not last more than 10 days without treatment. However, if you have persistent canker sores coupled with a fever that inhibit you from eating normally, seek professional medical help. You can as well treat canker sores at home with salt water to rinse your mouth and tongue.

5. Scarlet Fever

Bumps on back of tongue can be as a result of scarlet fever. If you have scarlet fever, you may have a feeling of a strawberry tongue. Bumps will appear anywhere on the mouth and tongue. Scarlet fever tends to make your to appear red, bumpy and swollen. This condition is caused by infection of bacteria in the mouth and tongue.
If you have a sore throat or a skin infection, you are likely to suffer from scarlet fever. The symptoms of scarlet fever manifest themselves after two to five days of infection. It is more common in children than it is in adults. You may develop rash on the affected skin and gets itchy sometimes. The fever tend to spread across the entire body including the chest and abdomen.
The fever on the tongue makes the tongue appear bright red with slightly odd enlarged bumps on back of tongue. Antibiotics can be used to treat the condition if it is mild. Scarlet fever is known to be very contagious should therefore be taken seriously.

6. Smoking weed and consumption of alcohol

Is smoking weed or taking alcohol causing your tongue to have bumps? Generally smoking or excessive consumption of alcohol puts your health at risk. If you have the habit of excessive smoking and large intake of alcohol, you should quit. Your tongue gets irritated whenever you smoke weed. This makes your tongue sore and the bumps on back of tongue get painful and easily bleed.
Additionally, smoking and alcohol intake puts you at risk of contracting oral cancer including your mouth, gums, cheeks, tongue and throat. Smoking can as well make your tongue to have a white coating. White bumps or lines on the tongue will be visible from inflammation called oral lichens.

7. Leukoplakia

If you a thick white lesions that appear on your mouth and tongue, you could be suffering from a condition known as leukoplakia. You may notice raised odd bumps on the gums, cheeks and tongue. Although the bumps are benign but they might be precancerous. In some instances red lesions known as erythroplakia will develop.
Leukoplakia tend to develop as wrinkled patches on the sides of the tongue. The patches are common as visible as hairy leukoplakia. These lesions are less painful. However, they get irritated and become sensitive if you eat spicy or hot food.

8. Warts

Is your bumpy tongue a symptom for warts? Bumps on back of tongue be warts that typically appear in different parts of the oral cavity. Wart is a Human papilloma virus that causes genital warts and cervical cancer in women. Lately, it is known as the cause of infection that tend to harbor at the back of your mouth including the throat, back of tongue and tonsils.
Warts in the mouth appear as a group or cluster or at times as a singular growth.  You’re likely to experience raised bumps that look odd, wrinkled or spiky. Other simples of bumps on back of tongue caused by warts include: slight discoloration when compared to neighboring tissues that will appear red, pink or white in color.

9. Kawasaki Disease

Bumps in the mouth and back of tongue can be caused by Kawasaki disease. This is an autoimmune disease that is prevalent in children. It causes odd red bumps that are slightly enlarged on back of tongue. Other symptoms of Kawasaki disease include: cracked lips, fever, swollen lymph nodes, the palms or the soles of the feet become red.
If your child has Kawasaki disease, visit your healthcare provider for treatment. Otherwise, it can lead the tongue turning very dark and be fatal if left untreated.

10. Mononucleosis

Small dots or bumps on back of tongue which doesn’t hurt can be caused by mono infection. Mono tend to mostly affect the upper respiratory system. The symptom of mono include:

  • Severe fatigue
  • Headache
  • Sore throat and tongue, which sometimes can be severe
  • Muscle pain
  • Small red spots or bumps on tongue and inside mouth particularly on the roof of mouth (palate)

If you have any of the symptoms among others, visit your doctor to have condition treated.

11. Sore throat and strep

A sore throat and tongue strep could be the reason back of your tongue is having bumps. Strep throat is caused by infection of bacteria in the oral cavity particularly the throat and tend to spread to other areas including back of tongue.  Bumps on your tongue that don’t hurt are normal.
All humans have large taste buds called vallate papilla that are located at the back of tongue. If the bumps hurt, visit your healthcare provider to get examination. Sore throat can cause you to have post nasal drip: this is from congestion of mucous either from cold or from seasonal allergies.

12. Digestive problems such as acid reflux

Back of your tongue can have red bumps due to digestive disorders like acid reflux. If you have acid regurgitating from the stomach and reaching the back of your tongue surface and throat, lumps are likely to develop. The burning effect of the acid will form raised lumps like blister which appear red. Common symptoms of acid reflux include a heartburn, bloating, regurgitation among others.

13. Red bumps on tongue STD, HIV or Oral Herpes

Red lumps on back of tongue could be an indication of STDs. If you’re having initial stages of sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea, you are likely to develop little or tiny painless sores on your tongue.  This can be seen in other areas such as vulva, vagina, lips, cervix and other entry point of the bacteria causing the disease.
At the secondary stage of infection, sores and lesions are quite common. However, red bumps on back of tongue doesn’t necessarily imply that you have HIV. Bumps on your tongue could be a weakened or generally a compromised immunity allowing other infections on your tongue.
Oral herpes is a viral infection caused by a herpes simplex. Oral herpes causes painful sores or bumps on your lips, gums, inside your cheeks roof of the mouth and back of tongue and throat. You can contract herpes by touching infected saliva, skin or mucous membrane.

Reasons for Bumps on back of tongue that hurts to swallow

Odd and raised bumps on back of tongue can make you feel uncomfortable when you chew. If the bumps are caused a by serious health condition like cancer, HIV or simply oral thrush, it can be really hurt when you swallow food. If you are having a lump on back of tongue that hurts when you swallow, you should make an attempt to visit a doctor.
Similarly if the bumps on tongue are inflamed or irritated, they can hurt when you swallow. Oral bumps including at the back of tongue and throat can hurt of you are allergic certain food or a reaction to medication.

Why are Red Bumps on back of the Tongue bleeding

The appearance of red spots on back of tongue that bleed can be worrying. Bleeding spots on back of tongue can be an indication of a more serious health condition like HIV, oral cancers or just trauma. If for instance you have enlarged lumps or red spots on tongue, physical trauma such as brushing your teeth can cause bleeding.
Mouth syndromes can also be the reason why the lumps or dots on back of your tongue are red and bleeding. A more serious case like oral cancer can lead to bleeding of dots on your tongue. Bumps in the mouth as a result of cancer are typically reddish or whitish and tend to bleed easily. Additionally, oral thrush or candidiasis can cause red spots on the tongue to bleed especially when you try to remove the white coating.

Can you get Bumps on back of Tongue during Pregnancy

Do you have a bunch of bumps on back of tongue while you are pregnant? Tongue sores during pregnancy are normal and can be caused by a number of reasons. It could be stress, oral cancer, allergic reaction, compromised immunity or enlarged papillae. A viral or yeast infection could also be the cause of bumps or sores on back of tongue.
Check with your doctor to have the condition examined and treated. If left untreated it could be the onset of a serious medical condition such as oral cancer.

What to do when there are Bumps on back of tongue of a baby

A baby or a toddler having a bumpy tongue could be suffering from canker sores, inflamed papillae, Kawasaki syndrome or mouth diseases among others. Kawasaki diseases is the prime cause of bumps on tongues of children. It can be difficult for the child to feed and swallowing. See a pediatrician for diagnosis if the bumps are painful and last for more than weeks.

What about Red bumps on back of tongue and white coating

What does a white coating on your tongue couple with red bumps mean? White coated tongue is as result of an overgrowth and swelling of papillae on the surface of the tongue. If food particles, bacteria and dead cells get lodged between enlarged and sometimes inflamed, you end up with a white coating with appearance of red bumps. Inflammation on papillae can be due to poor oral hygiene, smoking, alcohol use, low roughage diet among others.
Certain medical conditions and continued use of antibiotics can bring oral yeast infection. Your tongue could be suffering from oral lichen planus: it is a disorder that attacks the immune system causing white patches in the mouth including the tongue.

Why you have Lumps on back of tongue and swollen tonsils

Red lumps on back of tongue can be a symptom of tonsillitis. If you have acute irritation or inflammation of the tonsils caused by bacterial or viral infection, the tonsils become swollen. The most common bacterial infection is strep throat caused by a group of streptococcal infection in the tonsils, tongue and throat.

How to get rid of bumps on back of your tongue

Treatment or cure of bumpy tongue depend on what causes it. Bacterial or yeast infection will be healed by prescription of the right antibiotics or viral drugs. Oral thrush can be treated by prescription of antifungal medications.
To help cure or soothe irritation of lumps on back of tongue, the following are the recommended home remedies and general oral care tips that can be of much help.

  • Avoid allergic foods or medication. Food that irritate your mouth and tongue should be avoided. Spicy foods, acidic, hot or salty foods should be avoided to help the lumps heal fast. Similarly, if you are allergic to certain drugs, your healthcare provider will recommend alternative drugs and medications.
  • Practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth, mouth and tongue regularly. You can incorporate antibacterial mouth wash.
  • Gargle with salty or saline water. Make it a habit to gargle your oral cavity with salty or saline water 2-3 minutes twice daily.
  • Chewing mint leaves before bedtime can help reduce irritation and swelling on the bumps.
  • Make a paste of hydrogen peroxide and baking powder and apply it on the tongue. This will reduce the swelling and remove bacterial infections.
  • For canker sores, you can topically apply antihistamine ointment. Rub gently the ointment directly onto the sores. This helps to soothe the canker sores.
  • You may as well try a cold compress by sucking ice chips or cubes. This will help reduce inflammation, pain or swelling of the bumps on back of tongue.

Clubbed Fingers Causes: Pictures, Nails, Stages, Treatment

Finger clubbing is also called digital clubbing or Hippocratic fingers. It is the phrase doctors use to describe specific changes in the shape of the fingers and fingernails. People with heart or lung problems sometimes have these changes. They usually develop in advanced disease. Finger clubbing happens in more than 3 out of 10 people with non-small cell lung cancer but only about 4 out of 100 people with small cell lung cancer. You may also get it with mesothelioma.
Clubbing is thought to be caused by fluid collecting in the soft tissues at the ends of the fingers. This is caused by more blood flowing to the area than usual, but it is not fully understood why this happens. It may be due to the tumor producing particular chemicals or hormones, which is called a paraneoplastic syndrome.
Clubbing of the fingers is attributed to the nails becoming round and wide, primarily due to thickening of the nail plate. Clubbing of fingers can develop within a few weeks and are often linked with several disease conditions.

Signs and symptoms of Clubbed Fingers

Your finder may club with numerous associated signs on them. The following may be some of these symptoms your may have to look at:

  • The nail becomes soft, which gives it a typically appearance as though the nail is detached from the nail bed and floating.
  • The angle between the cuticle and the nail increases, such that they are in aligned in a straight line.
  • The finger tips become enlarged.
  • The tips become warm and red.
  • The nails form a sharper angle with the cuticle.
  • The nail curves downward so it looks like the round part of an upside-down spoon.

Invariably the condition is associated with symptoms of an underlying disorder affecting the lung, heart or the endocrinal system.
Development of clubbed fingers

  • Clubbing develops first in the thumb and forefinger before it eventually spreads to the other fingers. Obliteration in the angles of the nail beds is the first clinical sign and constant feature of the disease. Common symptoms of clubbing include softening of the nail beds. Instead of being firmly attached, the nails may seem to float.
  • They then form a sharper angle with the cuticle and the fingertips may look like it is swollen and bulging.
  • In addition, curvature of the nails pointing downward similar to that of an upside-down spoon wherein the fingertips appear broader and round than usual often suggests blood work-up for hemochromatosis or anemia.
  • For lower extremities, clubbed fingers and toes are difficult to determine as they normally appear bulbous but is often recognizable in the great toe. In mild cases though, minimal changes of the toe and slight pain are sometimes expressed by patients.

Oftentimes, changes in the color of the nails suggests systemic conditions such as hepatic failure and diabetes for unusually white nails, renal failure for half and half nails, arsenic poisoning for prevalent Mee’s line, dark longitudinal streaks for melanoma and chemical staining while longitudinal striations suggests alopecia areata or hair loss and sometimes psoriasis or vitiligo. Furthermore, brown or black discoloration and striations of the nails may suggest presence of early stage HIV.

Clubbed Fingers Causes

Clubbing is changes in the areas under and around the fingernails that occur with some disorders. The nails also show changes. Clubbing can develop quickly, often within weeks. It also can go away quickly when its cause is treated.
The following are causes of clubbed fingers:
Chronic lung problems
More than three-quarters of clubbing conditions can be related to chronic lung issues. Cardiovascular disorders may be involved in up to 15% of clubbing end up to one-tenth of clubbing may be associated with constantly recurring liver and stomach disorders.
Lung cancer
Lung cancer is the most common cause of clubbing. Clubbing often occurs in heart and lung diseases that reduce the amount of oxygen in the blood. These may include:

  • Heart defects that are present at birth(congenital)
  • Chronic lung infections that occur in people with bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis or lung abscess.
  • Infection of the lining of the heart chambers and heart valves (infectious endocarditis). This can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or other infectious substances
  • Lung disorders in which the deep lung tissues become swollen and then scarred (interstitial lung disease)
  • Other types of cancer, including liver, gastrointestinal, Hodgkin lymphoma

Heredity
The mechanism underlying clubbed fingers is not definitively known. An increased flow of blood through the capillaries due to a neurocirculatory reflex could cause tissue hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the tissues. It is not clear whether the same mechanism contributes to inherit clubbing.
A study of capillary blood flow in inherited clubbing showed no abnormally increased circulation. However, this could be due to the fact that in cases of inherited clubbing, the clubbing process is usually complete by the time studies are undertaken, whereas in acquired clubbing, the process is ongoing.
Acquired clubbing and osteoarthropathy may have different origins. E ach may occur independently. Clubbing and hypertrophic osteoarthropathy often occur simultaneously with an underlying condition. Clubbed fingers may present before any other symptom of an underlying condition. It could, then, be an initial indicator of a tumor or other serious condition.
Inflammation in the heart lining
Inflammation in the lining of the heart and heart valves caused by bacteria, fungi and other infectious substances can also expose someone of getting the disease. Liver Cirrhosis, celiac disease, diarrheal infections, hyperthyroidism, Hodgkin’s lymphoma can be a causative factor as well. Additionally, medical articles also describe rare skin conditions including pachydermoperiostosis and palmoplantar keratoderma as unusual causes of nail clubbing.
Tetralogy of Fallot
Additionally, Tetralogy of Fallot is the most common cause of clubbing. It is named after Dr. Etienne Fallot, who discovered that a congenital heart defect can be fatal when left untreated. The condition causes cyanosis due to the lack of circulating oxygen which is manifested through pale nail beds contrary to the normal pink toned beds. Although it is rare, it is the common cause of cyanotic heart disease.
Other causes of clubbing:
Clubbing may also be related to a number of other conditions, such as liver disease and celiac disease, dysentery, hyperthyroidism, and some forms of cancer, such as liver and stomach cancer. Graves’ disease and Overactive thyroid gland can also result to clubbed fingers.
A specific cause of clubbing is not known. Generally, clubbing occurs with the onset of lung and heart conditions that reduce oxygen levels found in the blood.

  • Congenital defects of the heart.
  • Chronic pulmonary infections that are caused by bacterial or fungal organisms.
  • Bacteria or fungi which infect the heart lining or the heart valves.
  • Illnesses that occur with the swelling and scarring of the tissues of the lung.

Finger Clubbing Stages

Finger clubbing occurs in stages. First the base of the nail (nail bed) becomes soft and the skin next to the nail bed becomes shiny. The nails then curve more than normal when looked at from the side and this is called scar mouth’s sign. The ends of the fingers may then get larger and are called drumstick fingers.
In the later stages, extra areas of bone may form on the finger joints, wrists and ankles. This is sometimes mistaken for arthritis and is called hypertrophic pulmonary osteoarthropathy.

  1. Hypertrophic osteoarthropathy

This is an advanced stage of clubbed fingers where there is painful periosteal proliferation of long bones such as the radius, ulna, or tibia. The periostitis is often associated with mild fever and arthralgia or joint effusion. Peripheral neurovascular disease with cyanosis, excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), paresthesias, and muscular weakness can also occur.

  1. Pachydermoperiostosis

This is a syndrome that combines hyper-trophic osteoarthropathy and acromegalic features. Patients with this disorder have cylindrical thickening of the limbs due to periostosis and skin changes. The skin changes include marked thickening and oiliness of the skin of the hands, forearms, and legs; accentuation of facial folds; hyperhidrosis of the hands and feet; and reduplication and furrowing of skin over the scalp.
Grades of clubbed fingers
There are five different grades of digital clubbing, some stages have visible changes while others have moderate to drastic changes.
1st stage
The first stage has zero signs of nail bed altercations. However, in this stage the nail bed starts to soften and slowly fluctuates.
2nd stage
The second stage is mild clubbing. In this stage, there is absence of the normal Lovibond angle but it can only be appreciated upon closer look.
3rd stage
The third stage is the moderate clubbing phase where the convex between the folds of the nails are dramatically increased and fingertip malformation is less palpable.
4th stage
Meanwhile, the fourth stage is the phase where digital clubbing is appreciated even at quick glance. During this stage, the tips of the fingers are slowly beginning to show a curve on each side and the nails begins to widen resembling like that of a chicken leg.
5th stage
Lastly, the fifth stage is the Hypertrophic Osteoarthropathy where on top of an apparent clubbed fingers, extremities have also increased in size. This resembles so much like that of a “bird claw” but is wider in diameter. The angles of the nail beds are greater than usual. In addition, patients would also experience angle and joint swelling.
Consequently, these stages have two types: Primary and Secondary. The former is genetic and is often credited to an autoimmune disorder while the latter is sometimes an underlying symptom of a malignant infection.

Clubbed Fingers Pictures

Clubbing is a physical sign characterized by bulbous enlargement of the ends of one or more fingers or toes. Proliferation and edema of connective tissue result in loss of the normal angle between the skin and nail plate and excessive sponginess of the nail base.
As clubbing progresses, the angle between the nail and the nail base becomes obliterated. Normally, the angle is less than or equal to 160°. With increasing convexity of the nail, the angle becomes greater than 180°. In early clubbing, the nail may feel springy instead of firm when palpated and the skin at the base of the nail may become smooth and shiny.
In individuals without clubbing, if two opposing fingers are placed together, a diamond-shaped window will appear. In clubbing, this window is obliterated and the distal angle formed by the two nails becomes wider. To learn more, have a look at the pictures provide in this post.

Nail Clubbing

Nail Clubbing is the change in angle between the nails and the nail base. People who manifested the disease have upper and lower extremities that are deformed with fingertips that are wider and rounder than usual. It is eventually larger than 180 degrees and is sometimes characterized by softening of the nail beds with flattening of the nails and sometimes enlargement of the fingertips.
Causes of Nail Clubbing

  • Normally, the nails are transparent, smooth, well-rounded and convex with a nail bed angle of about 160 degrees. Clubbed fingers are often an underlying symptom of a congenital cardiovascular disease or a heart ailment.
  • Etiology of this rare condition remains unclear but medical researchers believe that it is prevalent with race and genetic predisposition. Also, it is often associated with undiagnosed pulmonary, cardiovascular, neoplastic infections, as well as hepatobiliary, mediastinal, endocrine, and gastrointestinal diseases.
  • It may also occur as an idiopathic form that is most common in males with inherited autosomal and recessive X-linked trait; this is common in some families with PDP (pachydermoperiostosis). Furthermore, lung cancer or heart defects are the common cause of clubbing as it often occurs in the heart and the lungs where hypoxia occurs (reduced amount of oxygen in the blood).
  • Other common causes of clubbing are Pulmonary Fibrosis, a condition that presents stiffening and scarring of the lung. Bronchiectasis can also be attributed to the cause of the disease as it is an illness where bronchial tubes are permanently damaged and widened and when this happens, less oxygenation of the blood occurs contributing to clubbing of the nails.

Clubbed Fingers Treatment

Only a few weeks may be needed for the onset of clubbing to occur. But after the underlying condition is treated, clubbing will resolve. There is no direct treatment for clubbing itself. Its cause can be treated, and it is usually reversible when the associated condition is treated successfully.
Laboratory investigations
These will depend on the underlying conditions suggested by the overall clinical picture.
Imaging
This is not usually required to diagnose clubbing but plain radiographs of the digits may help to elucidate the cause. Osteolysis is often seen in patients with congenital cyanotic heart disease, whilst bone hypertrophy suggests a pulmonary condition.
Other modalities sometimes employed in clinical and research settings include technetium-99m scanning to assess bone loss, thermography and positron emission tomography (PET) scanning.
CT and MRI scanning of other areas may be required to assist in diagnosing the underlying primary cause.
Prognosis
Clubbing is potentially reversible if the underlying condition is treated early enough but the changes may be irreversible once collagen deposition has set in.
Treatment
The treatment of clubbed fingers primarily focuses on treating the underlying condition. Cancers can be treated with radiation or chemotherapy, while congenital cardiac disorders are treated with surgery. Though clubbing of fingers, itself is not a health concern, there are certain treatment therapies that might be beneficial for management of finger clubbing by treating the underlying cause,

  • Oxygen therapy, comprising on inhaling hyperbaric oxygen for about an hour each day is considered useful to deal with the condition.
  • Avoiding aerosol sprays like deodorants can help in the treatment of lung inflammation caused by exposure to toxins. Using a mask while working can help reduce occupational hazards like asbestosis.
  • Homeopathic drugs like Drosera and Antim Tart are useful in dealing with lung fibrosis. These drugs should be taken only after consultation with a trained homeopathic doctor.
  • Simple deep breathing exercises are considered to be beneficial in improving lung capacity and thereby deal with low oxygen concentration. Yoga therapies like Pranayama and Anulom-Villom are very useful.
  • A healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables help boost the hemoglobin levels, which in turn can improve blood oxygen concentration.

Nail Clubbing Treatment

Doctors determine the condition by asking the patients to complete a test called “Schamroth’s Window Test” or also known as “Schamroth’s Test”. The procedure was formulated by a South African doctor Leo Schamroth. It is so popular that it became the definitive test for clubbing of fingers.
Normally, a small diamond shaped window is visible between the nail bed and the nail folds. However, if it looks obliterated or blotted out, this may confirm existence of the disease. In addition, the nail beds also become soft and spongy, the distal part of the fingers are thickened, reduced Lovibond angle is observed and increased convex in the nail folds are also apparent in patients who tested positive.
Diagnostic studies for clubbed fingers are usually laboratory blood work-ups that confirm the underlying conditions but not the disease itself.

  • Imaging studies can also be suggested by physicians to diagnose the presence of such conditions. Firstly, X-ray is used to check evident presence of bone dissolution and bone deformation.
  • Secondly, Technetium Tc 99m Skeletal Imaging can also be recommended as it helps in providing good quality views in determining the extent of bone changes in clubbed digits, this also shows increased levels of blood flow and softening of surrounding tissues.
  • Thirdly, Thermography is another imaging test used to monitor increased temperature in the distal digits of patients testing positive for clubbing as this suggests vasodilation, however, not all clubbing have positive results.
  • Fourthly, Positron emission tomography is used to study glucose metabolism of clubbed digits as increased signals indicates higher glucose metabolism which is often demonstrated in distal parts of the clubbed fingers. These signs aren’t apparent in normal fingers; however, increased signal levels support the study that clubbing is attributed to platelet derived growth factor which increases metabolism.
  • Lastly, Computed Tomography (CT scan) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) aids in evaluating the primary causative factor of clubbing. When high frequency ultrasound imaging is used, Primary Hypertrophic Osteoarthropathy is easily presented in the films showing the long bones surrounded by echogenic tissues; this presentation reflects edematous and inflamed tissues which is a confirmative sign of the condition.

Can Nail Clubbing be Reversed?

Although clubbing is irreversible, early detection and treatment can potentially decrease the deformity or even reverse it if treated abruptly the moment it is diagnosed. However, reversal is unlikely the moment depositions of collagen are increased. Consequently, palliative treatment or symptomatic treatment is available.
In addition, there are also known natural remedies for clubbed fingers. Some of the conservative treatments are:

  • A mixture of 3 tablespoons of olive oil and one tablespoon lemon juice in a small bowl wherein clubbed nails are soaked in the mixture for 10 minutes is known to straighten clubbed nails
  • Soaking clubbed nails in a mixture of tomato juice, lemon juice as well as olive oil in a small bowl
  • Application of warm olive oil can also treat the condition
  • Sliced lemons rubbed over the nails in a 5 minute period also promotes natural nail growth
  • Consumption of foods rich in gelatin such as jellies can also be a cure as well
  • Avoidance of eating Vitamin E rich foods such as jojoba oil, wheat germ oil, almond oil and the like
  • Drops of Tea tree oil on the nail beds as well as use of essential oils
  • Salt water treatment for 5 minutes on the nail beds
  • Consumption of green leafy vegetables on a regular basis
  • No cutting of cuticles
  • Overall, nail clubbing can be prevented by consistent hand hygiene and practicing a healthy and well-balanced lifestyle

Sweet Taste in Mouth Causes: Symptoms and Treatment

Sweet taste in mouths is brought about by eating candies or drinking soda. However, if you frequently have a sweet sensation in your mouth without consuming sugary foods you might be worried about this condition. Having a heightened sense of taste is known as hypergeusia. Although many people complain of bitter or sour taste in their mouth, the abnormal taste sensation can cause a sweet taste in your mouth.

The ongoing sweet sensation in your mouth can be caused by a number of medical reasons. For example, diabetes, medications or a bacterial infection are causes of sweetness in your mouth. Some people on a low-carb diet say that they develop a constant sweet taste in their mouths. However, the sweet taste in your mouth can be a sign of a more serious condition like lung cancer.
Most people worry when they experience a bitter, metallic or unpleasant taste in their mouth.
Any change in gustatory perception and an unexplained taste in the mouth, however, could be a sign of a problem. You have to know when  a sweet taste in the mouth a reason to worry and when is it something that will simply go away on its own.

what could Cause a Sweet Taste in your mouth

Several medical conditions could contribute to experiencing a constant sweet taste in the mouth. The most common medical problems include the following:

  1. Diabetes

This interferes with how insulin in the body affects blood sugar levels. This results in high levels of sugar in the blood and in some cases, causes a constant sweet taste in your mouth. If you have diabetes, it is important to control your blood sugar levels properly to avoid diabetes complications.
Diabetes can cause changes to your sense of taste.
A study in 2016 from Brazil found that many diabetic patients have a reduced ability to detect sweet tastes. The researchers found that people with diabetes are less sensitive to sweet stimuli. This can lead to an increase in sugar consumption which can aggravate the symptoms of diabetes.
On the other hand, one serious diabetic complication which is actually linked to constant sweet taste in mouth is diabetic ketoacidosis. Doctors from the Mayo Clinic say that diabetic ketoacidosis occurs when the body can’t use sugar for fuel. It then breaks down fat for fuel and this causes blood acids called ketones to build up. This can cause you to have a fruity-scented breath.

  1. Neurological problems

Damage to your taste sensory nerves could leave you with a constant sweet taste in your mouth. For example, if you have suffered a stroke or have seizures, your sense of taste can be either heightened or impaired. The Canadian Journal of Neuroscience Nursing reported that strokes can cause smell and taste dysfunction.

For example, after a stroke, some people lose the ability to detect all tastes apart from sweet taste in mouth. This can have a negative impact on quality of life and lead to nutritional issues.
Another study found that a brain tumor affected a person’s sense of taste so that everything tasted either sweet or salty. When the tumor was successfully treated, the sense of taste returned and the patient lost the constant sweet sensation from eating food.

  1. Bacterial infections

Sometimes, a bacterial infection of your upper respiratory tract can leave you with a sweet taste in your mouth. Bacterial infections can interfere with how your brain responds to sweet, bitter, sour, and salty tastes. If you have had a cold, flu, or a sinus infection, you might find that you have a sensation of sweetness in your mouth until the infection clears.
The Journal of Clinical Investigation found that infections to the airways affect taste receptors. One of the consequences of this is that it affects your sweet taste receptors and causes elevated glucose levels in nasal secretions.

  1. GERD

GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disorder. It is characterized by an acid imbalance in the stomach. This is the main reason why people suffering from GERD could experience a strange and persistent taste in their mouth, including a sweet taste, according to WebMD.
People that suffer from GERD will also experience a constant sensation of fullness and bloating, inability to consume certain foods, acid reflux and vomiting. If the sweet taste in the mouth is accompanied by any of the mentioned symptoms, a medical diagnosis will be required.

  1. Medications

A constant sweet taste in mouth is a side effect of some medications. Of course, if you are taking medications for a serious illness or disease, then the constant sensation of sweetness in your mouth is only a minor side effect of the drugs.
The American Academy of Family Physicians reported that certain medications can alter your sense of taste. For example, some high-blood pressure medications can cause you to have a strong sweet taste in your mouth.

  1. Your sense of smell

An altered sense of smell can also cause you to only taste sweet things when you eat or drink. According to Neil Lava on WebMD, your ability to smell directly affects your ability to taste. A loss of smell could mean that you can only taste a few flavors. A study published in the journal Chemical Senses reported that various odors can affect how we taste different foods. Certain odors enhance sweet tastes while other smells inhibit your ability to taste sweet things.

  1. Being on a low-carb diet

Many people who follow a low – carb diet report that they develop a constant fruity, sweet taste in mouth. Low-carb diets have helped many people to lose weight quickly and naturally. The function of carbohydrates in the body is to provide a source of fuel. A diet that restricts carbohydrates can actually have a positive effect on insulin levels, reduce food cravings, and boost metabolism
The sweet taste in your mouth while on a low-carb diet comes from the process called ketosis. This is where your body starts burning fat for energy and this causes acids called ketones build up in the body. This can cause sweetness in your mouth.

  1. Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF)

This is a disease that affects people who chew betel nut. OSF causes serious complications and can lead to oral cancer. However, oral submucous fibrosis can also cause a feeling of sweetness in the mouth that doesn’t go away.
The journal Contemporary Clinical Dentistry reported that people suffering from OSF have experienced heightened senses of taste. Among the dysfunctions that oral submucous fibrosis causes are, a persistent sweet taste in mouth.

  1. Lung cancer

In rare occasions, an unpleasant sweet taste in the mouth could be one of the signs of lung cancer. This occurs because sometimes tumors in the lung can cause high levels of a hormone that affects a person’s sense of taste. Researchers have found that a taste-modifying substance can cause patients to interpret all foods as sweet.
Of course, a constant sweet taste in your mouth doesn’t mean you have lung cancer. There are many other, more common symptoms of lung cancer that you should be aware of.

  1. Pseudomonas infection

This results from infection caused by a bacterium known as pseudomonas. This infection leads to sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses) and occasionally alters the taste buds thereby causing sweet taste in the mouth. A more severe infection would bring about impairment in the functions of the taste receptors. Further attacks by the bacterium could lead to swimmer’s ear and itchy nose. Pseudomonas can also infect the lungs where it produces cough with or without sputum production, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.

  1. Indigestion

This symptom could come from acid reflux problem. When more acid is formed in the stomach, some acid are pushed back into the gut leading to sweet taste in mouth. Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) characterized by backup of particles of food into the mouth, with smell and taste of food. Other symptoms of GERD include chest pain and burning sensation in the stomach.

  1. Epileptic attack

Some forms of epileptic attack, notably the grand mal, go through a warning stage (aura stage) which is characterized by unusual sound, flash of light, and taste in the mouth.

  1. Ketosis

When the body depends on fat for energy, the breakdown of the fats lead to the release of chemicals known as ketones. This condition is known as ketosis. Ketones also produce a byproduct referred to as acetone. It is this acetone that you breathe out, which is responsible for the fruity smell or taste that is experienced. Ketosis occurs in diabetes when there is a drop in the level of blood sugar and insulin.
Conditions that give rise to drop in blood sugar level include going on weight loss diets with low carbohydrate and high protein contents, excessive exercise, anorexia etc. This is why there could be sweet taste in the mouth after exercise or even when you are not exerting yourself physically.

Is Sweet Taste in Mouth a Pregnancy Symptom

Occasionally, there could be sweet taste in the mouth during pregnancy. Where this occurs, it is not an entirely strange phenomenon. A lot of women are known to experience metallic taste during pregnancy, which is usually a sign of early pregnancy.
However, some women have sweet ness in your mouth during pregnancy as a result of gastrointestinal changes such as acid reflux. When acid reflux occurs, some acid are pushed up into the gut leading to acid taste in mouth. This is the same way that the taste in mouth during pregnancy occurs.
This problem occurs in about seven percent of all pregnant women. The main prominent risk factors responsible for developing sweet taste in mouth during pregnancy include:

  • A history of type 2 diabetes in the family
  • History of previous pregnancy that resulted in gestational diabetes
  • Obesity or overweight
  • Being in pre-diabetic condition before pregnancy
  • Previous history of pregnancyresulting in a baby with birth weight of 10 pounds (4.5kg) or more
  • Being 25 years or older during the period of pregnancy

Though in majority of the cases the symptoms disappear on its own, it is advisable to see the physician to rule out pregnancy -induced diabetes mellitus which usually starts during pregnancy and is diagnosed during the same period.
Diagnostic Process
Physicians know which medical conditions are most likely to cause a sweet taste in the mouth. They’ll do a thorough physical and order a couple of lab exams to rule out the most prominent conditions. Usually, physicians will check for digestive issues first. These are most common and they typically contribute to an altered taste. If you have diabetes risk factors, your blood glucose levels will be checked out, as well.
Common Treatments
The treatment for an unpleasant sweet taste in mouth will depend entirely on the condition that is causing the symptom.

  • If the sweet taste is an isolated occurrence, your doctor will suggest waiting for the problem to get resolved on its own.
  • The treatment for GERD is complex and it involves the use ofanti-acid to neutralize stomach acid, medications that keep acid production at a healthy level and diet changes.
  • The treatment for type 2 diabetes is insulin therapy, diet changes, regularexercise and regular blood sugar monitoring.

Why is there a Sweet Taste in Mouth at Night?

Most of the time you would be able to identify a sour taste in the mouth as being due to stomach acid when it is accompanied by heartburn, nausea and indigestion.
However, people who suffer with silent acid reflux may only have symptoms like a sour taste or sore throat typically in the morning after awaking from sleep.
Sometimes the taste may be more bitter than sour. This is usually with bile reflux, where bile from the gallbladder travels from the duodenum all the way up to the mouth.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Brushing your teeth daily, twice daily preferably, with flossing and rinsing using a good mouth wash are the key practices in maintaining good oral hygiene. The mouth is teeming with bacteria that feed off the food particles between the teeth, on the tongue and the other nooks and crannies within the mouth at night. A range of mouth and dental problems can arise with poor hygiene which may cause a funny taste in the mouth.
Mouth and Dental Problems
A number of different mouth and dental problems can arise and a strange taste in mouth at night may be one of the symptoms. From tooth decay to gingivitis and oral candidiasis, any disease involving the mouth and teeth may affect the taste buds. Sometimes it is due to secretions from the diseased area but at other times it may be that the disease process is causing an abnormal stimulation of the taste buds.

Reasons for a Sweet Taste in Mouth in Morning

Sweet taste in your mouth in early morning can come from poorly controlled blood glucose in diabetics. Excess glucose gets deposited in between the gums/teeth thereby resulting in the sweet taste that you notice in the morning. This is one of the reasons while dental care is highly advocated for people suffering from diabetes.
The sweet taste in your mouth in early morning often goes away after brushing. Sometimes, it gets less after drinking water, which helps to reduce the concentration of the sugar in the gums. In some cases, a visit to the dentist may be the first place to discover that you actually have diabetes even though the symptoms are not yet visible.

Why does Water Taste Sweet to me?

Infections in the nose, throat and/or sinuses, particularly bacteria known as pseudomonas, may contribute to a sweet smell or taste when you drink water or after. This is a bacterium that may cause sinuses and other infections of ear, nose, and throat particularly in those individuals with immune systems that are compromised.
This bacterium often creates infections of the urinary tract as well as pneumonia. Even though pseudomonas may cause the taste of sweetness in the mouth, infections by pseudomonas can also be life-threatening. But normal individual may get infections with pseudomonas and do just fine.

How to Get Rid of a Sweet Taste in Mouth

You need to consult your doctor if you start sensing constant sweet taste in your mouth. He would find out the underlying cause for this problem which is only a symptom of some other disease. The treatment depends on the underlying factor that causes the problem.
Below are some of the things you could do to reduce the unpleasant symptoms you are experiencing.
Get rid of acid reflux
Since GERD has been fingered as one of the causes of sweet taste in the mouth, one way to treat the problem therefore, is to treat the GERD. This can be done by employing a combination of medications such as antacids, H2 receptor antagonists, Proton Pump Inhibitors, etc. They play a major role in helping to reduce acid reflux thereby reducing the symptoms of GERD.
Treat diabetes
Taking care of diabetes will also eliminate the sweet taste in mouth if it is associated with the disease. The type of drug to use for diabetes management depends on the type of diabetes, whether insulin-Dependent or Non-Insulin Dependent. For insulin dependent diabetes, the use of insulin helps to put the high blood sugar under control. Non-Insulin Dependent diabetes would need multiple drug therapy like Metformin, and Glibenclamide or Chlorpropamide, etc for the control of blood sugar.
The above treatments can be augmented with exercises and change in diet. Some forms of regulated diets are prescribed for diabetic patients as medications alone are hardly sufficient to take care of the condition.
Treat cancer
The offending cancer can be treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy or surgery depending on the stage of the cancer. When this is appropriately handled, the sodium imbalance can be restored or other measures can be specifically taken to correct the hyponatraemia which is responsible for the sweet taste in mouth. Temporary measures aimed at controlling the sodium imbalance would only produce temporary relief until the underlying cause is pragmatically addressed.
Antibiotics
Pseudomonas infection should be treated with the right antibiotics. It usually responds positively to one or more of the following antibiotics – Ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin, ceftazidime, gentamicin, ureidopenicillins, carbapenems, cefepime and ticarcillin. It is good to run the necessary tests in order to determine the best antibiotics to use for the treatments of the infection.
Watch your diet
If the taste is coming from your diet, change the diet or try and rinse your mouth thoroughly after eating. This will get rid of those artificial sweeteners sticking to your tongue and gums. Avoid foods that contain high concentrates of sugar. In addition, avoiding concentrated sugars would also help put your blood sugar under control if you are a diabetic.
Alternative treatments
Sweet taste in mouth does not respond to orthodox treatment alone. It sometimes responds positively to alternative medicine especially when used to supplement the orthodox ones. However, you must be aware that alternative medicine may not be trusted when there are serious problems like diabetes type 2 and nerve damage. So, if you have ruled out the existence of the aforementioned disease conditions, you can now make use of any of the following alternative medicines:

  • Probiotic: Probiotic supplement are highly useful for improving digestion. They are bacteria that are highly beneficial for the preservation of healthy intestines that eventually assist in proper digestion. Probiotic can be found in foods like sauerkraut, yogurt, miso soup, kefir and kimchi.
  • Supplements: Supplements containing digestive enzymes are also useful for the management of problems resulting from indigestion. They assist the GIT in breaking down food and making digestion easier. You can easily order for any of them from online stores.

More references

  1. Sweet taste in your mouth: http://scarysymptoms.com/2012/01/sweet-taste-in-mouth-causes-and/
  2. A constant sweet taste in the mouth: http://health-benefits-of.net/sweet-taste-mouth
  3. Causes of sweet taste in the mouth: https://safesymptoms.com/sweet-taste-in-mouth/
  4. Sweet taste: http://mddk.com/sweet-taste-in-mouth.html

Bumps on Elbows: Small, Raised, White, not Itchy, Treat

Bumps on elbows? These kinds of bumps that form on elbows can be from variety of causes that can range from a skin rash to abscesses. They can range in size from very tiny to very large. Some may be so tiny that you mistake them for a skin rash but when looking at them closely you can see that the rash is made of tiny bumps clumped together.

Some of these spots on elbows can be treated with home remedies while others may require a visit to your dermatologist or physician for treatment. If the bumps on elbows do not respond to home treatment, or appear to become worse you should also seek medical treatment. Having bumps on your elbows is not very common but it does happen regardless of age, gender, or race.

Causes of Bumps on Elbows

Your elbows, like other parts of your skin, are particularly subjected to scaling and dryness. When wearing a sleeveless or short sleeve shirt your elbow comes into contact with many different irritations during the course of a day. This makes them susceptible to contact dermatitis, which is brought on by an allergic reaction to something that your elbow has made contact with during the day.
Viral infections
Viral infections can strike a local area of your body and cause a rash, blisters, inflammation, and bumps. If this is the cause it can last for several days and then go away on its own.
Rash
A rash has resultant bumps that can be caused by many things such as a bacterial or fungal infection or no infection at all but other things.
Atopic dermatitis
This is a form of eczema and is a hereditary skin condition. It is a type of rash that often affects children. This type of dermatitis is often associated with some type of allergy such as to cosmetics, detergents, or foods.
Psoriasis
This is a skin disorder that will often affect parts of your body where there is an accumulation of dry skin, such as your elbows. Oily skin can also be affected but dry skin is more susceptible.
Two of the symptoms are red scaly patches or bumps on elbows that tends to be a chronic condition that comes and goes. To help treat the areas of your skin that has psoriasis you should apply moisturizer several times a day.
Many times an outbreak can be aggravated by smoking, alcohol consumption, and stress. Treatment is a long-term situation. It can also be caused when your immune system is compromised or weakened, not allowing your skin cells to slough off more than they should.

Non-itchy Bumps on Elbows Causes

Cysts
These are sac-like growths that can contain semi-solid, liquid, or gaseous substances. Cysts can range from so tiny that you can only see them through a microscope or they can be quite large.
Cysts can be caused by many different things such as obstruction in your blood flow, tumors, chronic inflammatory conditions, or infections. Usually they are not harmful and will many times go away on their own. If they are very large they could interfere with your life and may have to be medically drained or surgically excised.
Lyme disease
This is a medical condition that is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is cause by a tick bite. At the site of the tick bite you may notice a small red bump and after a few days you will notice the redness increasing and start to form a bull’s eye pattern. The best form of treatment is to take appropriate antibiotics, especially in the early stages so the infection does not spread.
Granuloma annulare
This is also known as necrotic papulosis. It manifests itself in red bumps on elbows that are not itchy and occur in circular shaped rings. It mainly affects young adults and children with girls being more affected than boys are. What causes this medical condition is not known. It will usually go away on its own in a few weeks, to several months but it can recur. Although treatment is usually not needed you can treat it with topical steroid ointments and creams to help clear up the bumps.

what are these Itchy Bumps on Elbows?

Dermatitis herpetiformis
This is a very common cause of bumps that occur on elbows and is also a chronic skin condition. It is easier to treat this skin condition than psoriasis or eczema. The main symptoms are blisters or bumps that are filled with a watery fluid. It is more common in women and men in their mid-teens to middle age. These bumps can be as large as a half inch across. The itching with this skin condition can be quite severe at times.
Scabies
This medical condition is caused by tiny mites that have burrowed under your skin where the skin folds or where you wear tight clothing. Forming bumps on elbows is a common occurrence for mites. These types of red bumps can become very itchy. It is a contagious medical condition and is spread through human contact. Worldwide every year it affects almost three hundred million people. It is treated with prescription medications.
Poison ivy/oak
This is a reaction to the oily allergen that is present in the stems, roots, and leaves of these plants. Where you have a reaction you will notice red skin blisters accompanied by intense itching. To help with the itching you can use an over-the-counter anti-itch medication. If it is a severe case your dermatologist or physician may give you a prescription for a stronger anti-itch medication.
If you have itchy red bumps on elbows a general home remedy that you can use is to make a paste of water and baking soda and apply it to the affected area. You can also rub ice cubes over the itchy area.
Olecranon bursitis
When a person has bursitis it is an inflammation of small sacs of fluids that help your joints move smoothly. With this medical condition it affects your olecranon bursa, which is located at the back of your elbow. It is sometimes called Popeye elbow because the bumps on elbows that develop looks like the cartoon characters Popeye elbow. It can be caused by a sudden injury like a blow to your elbow that can cause fluid build-up or bleeding, infection, or inflammation from an inflammatory condition.
Boils
These are deep skin infections that are localized to one certain spot on your body. They are not a dangerous skin infection but they can be unsightly and painful. These can develop for many different reasons but all have a common factor, which is the development of some type of infection in your skin that is localized to that area. They can develop if you have a hair that becomes ingrown in a hair follicle, a broken area on your skin such as having a splinter, or other infections.
They develop because the bacteria that has invaded your skin has infected the deeper layers of your skin If the boil is very large you should see your dermatologist or physician to have it lanced and the fluid inside drawn out.
Abscesses
This is an infected, inflamed nodule that is filled with pus and can cause bumps on elbows. If you do not have it treated it can rupture, allowing the infection in the nodule to spread. It is often a hard, raised nodule and mostly occurs below the surface of your skin. It is initiated by the introduction of some type of foreign matter like a sliver of glass, a wooden splinter, etc. When the area becomes irritated it will have a reddish hue along with tenderness in the area. It may also feel warm to the touch.
Insect Bites
Many times when a person has an insect bite their skin will react to the toxins that were injected into their body by the insect that bit them, causing red, itchy, swollen skin bumps on the bitten site. You can have a reaction to a variety of insects such as mites, mosquitoes, fleas, bed bugs, spiders, and more. If you are not sure what type of insect bit you then you may need to see your physician for treatment if home remedies do not seem to help
If you are not sure what has caused the bumps on elbows it is best to see your physician or dermatologist to find out the cause so if treatment it needed the right one can be started. For the itchy bumps, try to avoid scratching them as it can cause a secondary skin infection.

Small Bumps on Elbows Meaning

The elbows often become exposed to irritants from soaps, clothing or sun. They likewise are vulnerable to pressure-sensitive skin inflammations.
Any number of medical conditions and ecological factors can add to the formation of small red bumps on the elbows that can become quite uncomfortable.
The elbows can have spots on which scabies appears, and the mites cause tiny red bumps that become seriously itchy. This condition is extremely contagious and generally spreads through human contact.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the condition scabies influences almost 300 million individuals worldwide every year. Extreme scratching can cause infections, however scabies is easily treated with prescription medications.
When the immune system is damaged or is otherwise compromised, skin cells do not constantly slough off as they ought to and small raised bumps might form on the elbows. The condition called psoriasis is not contagious and normally runs in households.

How about those Raised Bumps on Elbows

Just as the rest of your body’s skin, you elbows can be affected by those small raised bumps. Any number of medical conditions and ecological factors can add to the development of small red and white bumps on the elbows that can become rather uncomfortable and rather painful.
Elbow lumps can happen to anyone. Often, elbow lumps are the result of an injury, such as a blow to the elbow. These kinds of lumps may result from inflammation, poor healing of a broken bone, or a skin growth, such as a cyst or tumor. Inflammation of the elbow can result from tendinitis, bursitis, sports injury, sprains, strains, arthritis, or infections within the joint. Growths can be either benign or cancerous in nature.

When Bumps on Elbow are not Itchy

You can be faced by a bump on elbow that is not itchy. There are some common conditions that are very friendly on your elbows and some of them may even disappear without your intervention.
Cysts can range from so tiny that you can only see them through a microscope or they can be quite large. Cysts can be caused by many different things such as obstruction in your blood flow, tumors, chronic inflammatory conditions, or infections. Usually they are not harmful and will many times go away on their own. If they are very large they could interfere with your life and may have to be medically drained or surgically excised.
Lyme disease is another condition that is characterized by bumps on elbows that are not itchy. As discussed above, it is a medical condition that is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is cause by a tick bite. At the site of the tick bite you may notice a small red bump and after a few days you will notice the redness increasing and start to form a bull’s eye pattern.
You may as well develop white spots on your elbows that are not inflamed, or don’t cause you discomfort. There are numerous conditions that are responsible for this too, for you to be sure of the cause, it is very important to be examined by your skin doctor if you are not sure.
For example, shingle is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, which is the varicella-zoster virus. Even after you get over the chickenpox some of the strains of the virus remains in your body and when it flares up it can cause a burning rash that is made of many small red or white bumps that don’t itch.

Reasons for Itchy Bumps on Elbows and Knees

Atopic dermatitis or eczema is an itchy, red, scaling oozing or crusting rash appearing in persons prone to asthma and hay fever.
It runs in families. In infants, it usually affects the outer sides, and in older children and adults the inner sides of knees, elbows and often other parts of the skin. Flare-ups that come and go are characteristic for an acute eczema, and pigmented plaque for a chronic eczema.
Small itchy bumps can also appear in all parts of the body after tanning. However, they are more usually found in the areas, such as the stomach, chest, the elbows and knees that are more exposed to the harmful ultraviolet rays for a longer period of time.
These bumps are brought about by excessive exposure to the UV rays. Lighter skinned people are also much prone to the formation of the itchy red bumps occurring on the elbow, knees and the areas where the skin will naturally crease. Allergic reaction that occurs due to the tanning lotion can also lead to the bumps on the elbow.

How to Get Rid of Bumps on Elbows

Getting rid of your prickly skin requires more moisture and a lot of gentle abrasion. With persistence you can soothe your damaged epidermis back to soft supple smoothness. Here are some important steps you can follow to restore your back arms skin.
Step 1
Wash the affected area daily using a tablespoon of a moisturizing body wash that contains no fragrance. Use small circular motions and a washcloth to massage the skin gently. Avoid bar soaps or any random body wash that contains sulfates, which will dry the skin out further and make the bumps worse. Rinse the scrub off well using warm water.
Step 2
Squeeze out a tablespoon of a mild exfoliating cream that contains glycolic and lactic acids. Massage the cream over the bumps on elbows with your fingers, making small circular motions to help remove the dead, dry skin. Continue massaging for 30 to 60 seconds, and then rinse the scrub off well using warm water.
Step 3
Pat your skin dry gently using a towel just until most of the moisture is gone. Apply a tablespoon of moisturizing lotion to the bumpy areas immediately before your skin dries. Massage the cream in well using your hands.
Step 4
Repeat the washing, exfoliating and moisturizing once per day until the bumpy appearance subsides, which can take two or three weeks. Afterward, reduce exfoliation to once per week, but continue moisturizing daily.

Home Remdies Treatment

Atopic eczema can be easily treated using medications, including the over-the-counter creams and ointments that have the steroid hydrocortisone. These products may also assist to control the level of itching, the swelling, and redness associated with the eczema. Prescription-strength cortisone creams, together with cortisone pills and shots, are also applied for very severe cases of eczema.
Home remedies
Currently, there is no developed and effective method for prevention of bumps on elbows, but the signs and symptoms of the condition may be improved. Besides that, you can utilize some home remedies for the removal of bumps from knees and elbows as follows:
Lemon Juice
A small number of drops of lemon juice perform well, when applied on the pimple. Despite the fact that it can lead to a touch of tingling, it assists to bring down inflammation and swelling. Ensure that you apply only fresh lemon juice and not the packaged ones.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste is a very extraordinary way of treatment to get rid of bumps. Also, it is found in every house and you do not need to go out to the supermarket. Toothpaste is best used as a catch up to the icing to bring about the quickest comes about. It is important to note that the white toothpaste must be used instead of the gel toothpaste to get rid of bumps. You can also find how to get rid of bumps using floss and mouthwash.
Apply some toothpaste to the affected parts of the skin before quaint little inn overnight, wash using cold water in the morning to treat bumps.
Orange Peels
As shown by Cosmetic Dermatologist Principles and Practice that is expressed in the sense that the causticity and vitamin C substance in oranges makes it to become a flawless cure for acnes.
Milk and Honey
A mixture of these two ingredients forms a unique formula for the removal of bumps on elbows. Obtain and let yogurt or milk come to room temperature so that you don’t get a chilly shock when you put it on the skin. Mix about 1 tablespoon of milk or yogurt thoroughly with 1 tablespoon of honey.
You can use the mixture with a cotton pad, but scooping it up and patting it on works just fine as perfect. Let each layer dry before adding a new one, until the mask is the thickness that you want.
Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera gel can be used directly on the affected skin area to get rid of bumps. Aloe Vera has anti-inflammatory as well as anti-bacterial properties and assists to reduce the redness and skin irritation. Utilize enough amount of aloe vera gel to mask the bumps while also doing spot treatment.
Exfoliation/Scrubbing
This is the removal of dead skin cells that causes rough elbows. Natural sugar scrub is the best for skin exfoliation. You can also consider the drugstore type as well. Here is how to use;
Take exactly three table spoons of sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk powder as well as one tablespoon of honey, mix the ingredients together and scrub the mixture over the face for little number of minutes and rinse it off after about 15 minutes.

Puffy Eyelids Causes: Swollen, in the Morning, Upper, Pictures, How to Treat Fast, Home Remedies

What causes puffy eyelids? Get insights on the causes of swollen eyelids in the morning, corners of the eyes, how to treat and get rid of puffy eyes effectively.

Puffy Eyelids

This is a condition that makes eyes look swollen and tired, and often depending on the severity of the problem, they can make it difficult to open or close one’s eyes completely. There are many causes for puffy eyelids; hence some are avoidable, while others are not. However, there are also numerous at-home treatments you can use to reduce the puffiness in your eyelids.

Symptoms of Puffy Swollen Eyes

Swelling of the eyelids is a symptom of an underlying cause, such as allergy or infection. Swollen eyes usually are accompanied by one or more of the following conditions:

  • Eye irritation, such as an itchy or scratchy sensation
  • Excess tear production, resulting in watering eyes
  • Obstructed vision (depending on the extent of the swelling)
  • Redness of the eyelid
  • Red eyesand inflammation of the conjunctiva
  • Eye discharge, or “mattering”
  • Eyelid dryness or flaking
  • Pain, particularly when swollen eyelids are caused by infection

Other Symptoms associated with Puffy Eyelids

  • Swelling or swollen eyelids
  • Bags or excessive skinunder eyes
  • Itchy eyes
  • Red, bloodshot eyes
  • Irritated eyes
  • Inability to open or close eyes completely
  • Difficulty blinking
  • Tenderness
  • Pain

Generally, touching leads to rubbing and rubbing leads to puffiness. So if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, do your best to leave your eyes and eyelids alone until treatment can be obtained. If you are experiencing all of these symptoms, or if your puffy eyelids are severe, then you should contact your doctor immediately.
Unfortunately, most of us have had to deal with a swollen eyelid at some point in our lives. Puffy, swollen eyelids can cause discomfort, embarrassment, impaired vision, and difficulty applying cleanser or make-up. This problem can become serious if it’s not treated properly and quickly. In most cases, puffiness, tenderness, and red swelling of your upper and/or lower eyelid are indications of infection. And sometimes the swelling can be accompanied by discharge in the corner of your eye.
Depending on the severity of your swelling and the amount of pain you are in, you may want to seek medical attention immediately. You can try at-home remedies first, but if you’re unsure what caused it, it might be wise to ask a doctor.

Puffy Eyelids Causes

There are a number of things that can cause your eyelid to swell. Here are the most common causes:
Infections
Bacterial or viral infections can often cause swollen eyelids. These kinds of infections can be caused by improperly stored or misused cosmetics, by rubbing your eyes when your hands are dirty, or by any number of other practices.
Conjunctivitis
This condition, also known as pink eye, causes the white of your eye to become swollen, itchy, and red. Pink eye can also cause your eyelids to swell. This condition has a variety of causes, ranging from bacterial infection to allergies. Sometimes pink eye can be contagious, so double check with your doctor.
Orbital cellulitis
This is a rare condition involving an infection of the tissues surrounding the eyes. If orbital cellulitis is left untreated, it can spread to the sinuses and even further. Cellulitis infection requires immediate medical intervention. It’s more common in children, too.
Blepharitis
This is usually caused by a bacterial infection or a skin disorder. In either case, the eyelash follicles become inflamed and painful, and the affected person may notice discharge from the eye, pain, swelling, blurred vision, and a gritty sensation when blinking.
Styes
Also called a hordeolum, this is a kind of cyst on eyelid caused by a bacterial infection in the sweat- or oil-producing glands at the base of the eyelashes. It may be accompanied by pus, puffy eyelids, and redness. Styes usually go away on their own within a few weeks, and the healing process can be speeded along by applying a warm, wet compress to the affected eye each day for fifteen minutes.
Chalazion
It usually resembles a stye. It appears as a small, firm, round nodule the eyelid and it is caused by eye-duct blockage in the eye’s lubricating glands. Chronic blepharitis sufferers are somewhat prone to chalazia. Like a stye, a chalazion will often go away on its own, although in some cases surgery will be necessary to remove it.
Eyelid Dermatitis
This condition produces wrinkled, swollen, red, itchy, sometimes scaly eyelids. It is caused by an allergic reaction.
Blepharochalasis
This is an eye disorder, usually affecting children, that causes inflammation and puffy eyelids.
Shingles
This condition is caused by the Herpes Zoster (chickenpox) Virus. It manifests itself as a painful, itchy rash, sometimes accompanied by fluid-filled blisters. Other symptoms include fever, photophobia (sensitivity to light), and fatigue.
Contact lenses or solutions
Dirty lenses or certain types of cleaning solutions can contribute to swollen eyelids. Dirt on the lens can irritate the eye and the skin underneath the eyelid. Cleaning solutions can also cause irritation. Talk with your doc if you’re having trouble with either of these things.
Additional causes of swollen eyelids include:

  • Lack of sleep
  • Too much sodium in the diet
  • Too much alcohol
  • Crying
  • Too much artificial sweetener in diet
  • Genetics: many people are simply born with a predisposition to swollen eyelids.
  • High blood pressure
  • Hormonal imbalances of the sort that accompany pregnancy
  • Certain medications can cause tissue swelling all over the body. Often water retention is the culprit.
  • Dehydration

Anyone experiencing a single, sudden, unexplained puffy eyelid should seek medical attention from an eye specialist. If you are experiencing eyelid swelling on a regular basis it could be due to an allergic reaction to your face wash, fragrances, make-up, or laundry detergent. If you have no known allergies, there could be a more serious problem.

Puffy Upper Eyelids

Puffy eyelids are those eyes that have suffered enlargement. This can be either on the upper or lower eyelid. The swelling usually results from inflammation or a buildup of fluids in the tissues surrounding your eyes. The causes for this condition range from mild infections and inflammation to more serious cases.
There also are some more specific causes for puffy upper eyelids. Eyelid cysts are one of them. These develop over time and are rarely painful. However, in case they become infected, it is possible for them to become red and inflamed. Another condition frequently confused with cysts is formation of styes. These tend to occur at the end of eyelashes of the upper or lower eyelid and only become visible with time. How long the swelling lasts is determined by the cause and severity.
Causes such as allergic reactions last a short while and will go away when there is not more exposure to allergen. There always will be tell-tale signs of when an eyelid swelling should be of concern. In case the swelling is accompanied by symptoms such as a double vision, abnormal bulging, fever or vision loss, a physician should be contacted. In case of any of these danger signs, you should see the doctor immediately. Do the same if there is excessive pain or if the swelling does not get better or go away with time even after you have tried using home remedies for swollen eyes.

Puffy Eyelids in the Morning

As you continue to grow in age the tissues around your eyes become weak hence, waking up with swollen eyes in the morning may become more common. Although swollen eyes are not typically a medical concern, they can cause you more problems and many people look for ways to reduce the puffiness. A number of home remedies treatments can help control puffy eyelids in the morning under normal circumstances, but you should always consult a doctor if your eye swelling is particularly severe or persistent.
If you woke up in the morning and realize that your eyes are swollen, there are a few steps that you may have to follow and some of them involve the following:
Step 1
Apply a cool compress or cold, wet washcloth to the eyes for roughly 15 to 20 minutes. Do this while you remain sitting upright as you do this and use mild pressure, as MayoClinic.com explains. This will help bring down the puffiness.
Step 2
Take allergy medication if your swollen eyes are as a result of allergies. Try an over-the-counter antihistamine medication first, but if that doesn’t work, ask your medical provider if a prescription allergy medication would prove useful.
Step 3
As said earlier, remain upright, as keeping your head up may help the fluid pooling under your eyes to dissipate, which then may reduce the puffiness.
Step 4
Avoid excessively rubbing or touching the area around the puffy eyelids. Rubbing and touching the eyelids may contribute to the swelling and create dark circles, as the Dr. Gary Goldfaden in the March 2005 issue of “Life Extension Magazine” explains.
Step 5
Get some more sleep. If you had less than seven to eight hours of sleep, sleeping may help reduce the swelling eyelids. Keep your head slightly elevated while sleeping to prevent fluid from pooling under your eyes.
Puffy Upper Eyelids inner Corner
Swelling of the eyes can cause a lot of discomfort and pain. Swollen eyelids in the inner corner are painful or hurt when blinking, or generally feel sore. The cause of puffy eyelids on your lower eyelid can as well be the same cause of the puffiness on the upper eyelid. However, there are some causes that are more specific to the either eyelids. The inner corner of the upper eyelid on the other hand can be caused by allergy or blockage of some fluid tissues.
According to EyeHealthWeb, build-up of fluid is a common cause of the swelling of upper and lower eyelids. All About Vision on the other hand list inflammation or allergies as a cause of swollen eyelids. However, this condition can be treated with home remedies or naturally.

Puffy Eyelids from Crying

Whether you’re tough or the more sensitive type, everyone needs a good cry from time to time. Crying every once in a while can be good for you, but once the waterworks are over, you still have to deal with your tell-tale cry face. Cue the puffy, bloodshot eyes, red nose and everyone asking if you’re okay. But not to worry with a few quick tricks to counteract the redness and swelling, you’ll be back to normal in no time.
Run your fingers under icy-cold water, then, starting at the inner corners of your eyes, press down on the skin until you reach the outer corners of your eyes. Repeat several times to help drain the fluid that has accumulated underneath your eyes. If you can, follow up with an eye serum formulated with yeast extracts to flatten the area further.
To combat redness in the whites, use over-the-counter drops. “One to two drops per eye is sufficient and should wash away the redness upon contact,” says dermatologist Debra Jaliman, the author of Skin Rules.  Finally, cover up your red nose, plus any other areas that have become flushed, with a yellow-tinted concealer.

Puffy Eyelids Home Remedies – Swollen Eyelid

Avoid rubbing the eyes as this could worsen the condition. Keep the eyes clean as well to avoid getting infections. Where the swelling is severe, persistent or when the use of home remedies does not yield any relief, medical treatment should be sought immediately.
Where the swelling is minor, the use of home remedies for swollen eyelid will help ease the swelling, soothe irritation and relief pain. We look at some of these home treatments and how to make use of them for fast relief.
Drink a lot of water
Sometimes the cause of swollen eyes is dehydration. When the body is dehydrated, it tends to build water reserves within the body and one of the results could be swollen eyelids. Where this is the case, drinking plenty of water can help treat puffy eyelids. It is also recommended that you avoid alcohol as this can aggravate the dehydration. When your body stays well hydrated, this helps to prevent it from going into survival mode and thus avoid getting puffed up in the wrong places.
Cold Water
This is a great and simple cure for eyelids that have swollen up. This is more so where they are caused by sleepless nights. The coolness from the water will constrict the blood vessels thus lessen swelling as well as inflammation. For a number of times each day, splash your face with ice-cold water. Also, the same effect could also be achieved by using ice compresses on the eyes.
Salt Water
A solution of warm water and salt helps to draw out water retained in the eyes in a process similar to osmosis. With less water retained, the swelling is minimized. Place wool soaked in salt water solution on the eyes for a few minutes before doing the same for the other eye using a clean set of eye pads.
Chilled Tea Bags
Both green and black teas have soothing effects for swollen and irritating eyes. Caffeinated tea helps to constrict blood vessels and thus cure the swelling. While lying down, shut your eyes and place warm tea bags over each eye.
Cold Spoons
When spoons are cooled, they help to tighten up the skin around the eyelids as well as relax the blood vessels. When this happens, the eyes are relieved off the swellings. Place the reverse side of each spoon on each eye.
Light Eye Massage
When done in the right way, a massage around the eyes is a great treatment method that can help eliminate swelling. Move the finger from the inside heading outside in an arc shape. Keep repeating this for about ten minutes and then switch to the other eye.
In addition to the home remedies discussed earlier on, you can make use of natural remedies to alleviate swellings on eyelids. These natural remedies for swollen eyelids are easy to use, affordable and readily available. Pick the one you feel comfortable and try it on your eyes for fast relief.
Cucumbers
This great vegetable is a great remedy for swollen eyes. Cucumbers contain astringent properties and are not only cooling but soothing as well. They help in constricting blood vessels around the eyelids and thus help in getting rid of the swelling. In case there is any skin irritation with the swelling, cucumbers contain caffeic acid and vitamin C which will be nourishing to the eyes and which help to reduce it. While leaning back, place a slice on each eye for 10-15 minutes.
Aloe Vera
This natural remedy for puffy eyelids contains vitamin E and antioxidants which are vital for eye health. When used on swollen eyes, it helps to improve circulation of blood. It also flashes out any unnecessary fluids found under the eye. This helps to treat any swelling around the eyes. With clean hands, apply this gel around the eyes and allow it to dry up after which you will use some water to wash it off.
Potatoes
These work in the same way as cucumbers. They are effective in clearing swelling on eyelids. They contain starch and have anti-inflammatory qualities. These help in reducing swelling. When used around the eyes, they will also help to get rid of dark circles.

  • Wash a dry medium sized potato and peel it.
  • Grate the potato to obtain fine shavings.
  • Wrap up these shavings in a clean piece of cloth and use it to cover the eyelids.
  • Allow it rest for a few minutes before taking it off.

Egg Whites

These contain ingredients that help in tightening the skin. These will help in getting rid of the swelling.

  • Get two egg whites and whip them in a bowl until they attain a stiff consistency.
  • Add some drops of witch hazel and use a soft cloth to treat the eyelids with it.
  • Leave to dry and repeat procedure daily.

In addition to employing the above treatments, it is possible to avoid getting swollen eyelids. This you can do by following the tips listed below.

Puffy Eyelids Treatment

There are many things that can help your puffy eyes. These include treatments and putting into place preventive measures to avert further swelling. Whatever you do should be determined by what the cause of the swelling is as well as the extent of damage done.
In case the cause of the swelling is allergies, you should use antihistamines and decongestants to ease the swelling. These can be in the form of eye drops or oral medication. Also ensure that you eliminate the allergens. Where the swelling is not as a result of allergies, the use of natural and home remedies can help eliminate mild and moderate swellings. If your eyelids are painful or tender to the touch, the cause is likely an infection, cyst, or stye. It’s important to determine the cause of your puffy eyelids, as treatment options depend on what caused it.
Treatment for cysts: For relief, hold a wet heated cloth over your eye. The warmth can help with oil secretion and blockage. You can do this four to five times a day. If the cyst continues to linger, see your doctor. They can help drain it for you.
Treatment for stye: You can use a warm compress to bring relief and promote healing. It usually takes a few weeks before it clears up. Avoid using makeup while you have a stye, as this can cause reinfection.
Treatment for pink eye: You can clean the sticky and crusty eyelids with warm water and cotton. The eye may get better on its own without treatment. During this time, avoid touching your eyes and keep your pillowcases clean. You’ll also want to stop using eye cosmetics and contact lenses.
What to do if it’s an infection
An infection in the skin is called cellulitis. The skin around your eye will become red and may hurt. You will need antibiotics to relieve this swelling. Cellulitis usually affects the legs but can occur anywhere.
More references

  1. Puffy eyelids: http://www.eyehealthweb.com/puffy-eyelids/
  2. puffy upper eyelids: https://www.realself.com/question/heavy-puffy-upper-eyelids-surgical-alternatives-fix
  3. how to treat swollen eyes in the morning: http://www.livestrong.com/article/268333-how-to-cure-swollen-eyes-in-the-morning/
  4. eyelid inflammation: http://www.healthline.com/health/blepharitis#overview1

Bumps on Side of Tongue: Painful, Sore Throat, Lie, STD, Treatment

What are these bumps on side of tongue? Fungiform papillae are the small bumps that usually form on the top and sides of your tongue. They may have the same color as the rest of your tongue and, under normal circumstances, are unnoticeable. They give your tongue a rough texture, which helps you eat. They also contain taste buds and temperature sensors. The papillae can become enlarged for a variety of reasons. Most of the time, these reasons are usually not serious. You may visit your doctor if the bumps are persistent, are growing or spreading, or are making it hard to eat.
Papillae do not have many specific symptoms, other than the fact that the bumps are of either white or red color. The bumps on tongue could lead to some pain and irritation on the tongue, too.

Bumps that appear on the side of the tongue can feel like a lump, or look like a pimple. Don’t get confused if we use the terms interchangeably from here on. There are many ways bumps on the tongue will appear.
One individual may white a cluster of bumps on tongue, while another may just have red bumps on tongue. You could notice large bumps on tongue, a painful bump on tongue or a painless white bump on tongue or a hard spot on tongue.
Tongue bumps can also be red, yellow, and a cluster, single, on the side of the tongue, at the back of the tongue near the throat, under tongue or on the tip of the tongue.
Bumps on side of tongue can be painful and interfere with things we take for granted like eating, swallowing, even speaking. For some kinds, they may be harmful, but the bumps on the tongue are usually harmless. There are times though, when you may need to see a doctor as soon as possible as the tongue bump could indicate something more serious.

Causes of bumps on side of tongue

Lie bumps (transient lingual papillitis)
About half of us experience lie bumps at some point. These little white or red bumps form when papillae become irritated and slightly swollen. Usually, it is not always clear why this happens, but it may be related to stress, hormones, or particular foods. Although they can be uncomfortable, lie bumps aren’t serious and usually clear up without treatment and within a few days.
Eruptive lingual papillitis is most common among children and is likely contagious. It can be accompanied by fever and swollen glands. It is sometimes associated with a viral infection. It generally doesn’t require treatment and clears up within two weeks, but it can recur. Saltwater rinses or cold, smooth foods may provide some relief.
Canker sores (aphthous ulcers)
They can occur anywhere in the mouth, including under the tongue. The cause of these painful, red sores is unknown. Fortunately, they aren’t contagious. Over-the-counter pain relievers may ease symptoms. Canker sores usually get better within 10 days and without treatment. See your doctor if they’re persistent, are accompanied by fever, or are so bad that you can’t eat or drink. Prescription-strength topical treatments may help.
Squamous papilloma
Squamous papilloma is associated with the human papilloma virus (HPV). It is usually a lone, irregularly shaped bump that can be treated surgically or with laser ablation. There’s no treatment for HPV, but individual symptoms can be addressed.
Bumps from oral herpes are usually a cluster of small yellow or clear bumps on the tip of the tongue. The area around painful little bumps will also appear red.  Herpes sufferers will also notice pimples on the inside of the cheeks too, similar to the small white bumps on tongue. Some people fear they have gotten a bump or bumps after kissing. This is not likely to be herpes as the oral kind   is transmitted through unprotected oral sex.
Syphilis
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It usually begins with a small, painless sore that’s easy to dismiss. The initial sore is followed by a rash. More sores come and go as the disease progresses. In the early stages, syphilis is easily treated with antibiotics. During the secondary stages, sores may appear in the mouth and on the tongue. These sores can lead to serious complications, and even death, if left untreated.
Scarlet fever
It can result in “strawberry tongue.” This condition leaves you with red, swollen bumps on side of tongue. This bacterial infection can also cause skin rash and fever. Scarlet fever is usually mild and can be treated with antibiotics. Rare complications include pneumonia, rheumatic fever, and kidney disease. Scarlet fever is very contagious so it should be taken seriously.
This highly bacterial infection could explain some red bumps on the tongue of your child. Scarlet fever commonly affects children and besides fever, one gets a red rash on the body. This rash on the tongue will appear as small red bumps and is sometimes referred to as strawberry tongue.
Traumatic fibroma
This is a smooth, pink tongue growth caused by chronic irritation. It’s difficult to diagnose, so a biopsy is usually necessary. The growth can be surgically removed, if necessary.
Lympho-epithelial Cysts
These soft yellow cysts usually appear underneath the tongue. Their cause isn’t clear. The cysts are benign and can be surgically removed.
Mouth Cancer
Most bumps on the tongue aren’t serious, but some are cancerous. Cancerous bumps usually appear on the sides of the tongue rather than on the top. The most common type of cancer to develop on the tongue is squamous cell carcinoma.
Oral tongue cancer appears on the front part of the tongue. The lump may be gray, pink, or red. Touching it may cause bleeding. Cancer can also occur at the back, or base, of the tongue. It may be harder to detect, especially because there’s no pain at first. It may become painful as it progresses.
If cancer is suspected, your doctor will probably take a tissue sample for examination under a microscope (biopsy). Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, depending on the type and stage of cancer.
Allergic reaction
Sometimes an allergy, especially but not limited to food and medication will cause hard bumps on side of tongue or several lumps on tongue. Bumps from allergy may be hard large lumps marked out by angry red spots if you look at your tongue. However, they do not have sores, or appear to have fluid in them. You are likely to notice them almost as soon as you have been exposed to the substance you are hyper sensitive too, or allergen if you like. Welts and bumps may also appear on other body parts.
Trauma/ injury
If you bite your tongue or have eaten some hard foods recently, you may get some tongue bumps. Trauma bumps are likely to be towards the front and side of the tongue.
Kawasaki Disease
Also mainly in children, this disease can cause large red bumps on side of tongue. These bumps are typically in the back towards the throat and will be accompanied by other symptoms joint pain, swollen lymph nodes and redness on the hands and soles of the feet.
Mucoceles

These are cysts that form under the tongue as a result of a blockage on one or several saliva ducts. It will feel like a small, fluid, filled painless bump under tongue. You could also notice a bluish lump under the tongue that tis painless. This is another way mucoceles appear.
Leukoplakia
Leukoplakia may give you bumps in the mouth, including the tongue. Lumps from leukoplakia are not painful, nor malignant, usually.

Reasons for Painful Bumps on Side of Tongue in the Back

When the bumps on the sides of your tongue get infected, they may be characterized with other symptoms like pain, inflammation, burning sensation or bleeding. This may cause a lot of discomforts when chewing and swallowing food.
There are many issues that may cause you a painful bump on the side of your tongue. Oral cancer is also characterized with sore white bumps on the side of the tongue and throat.  Such bumps don’t go away even after tying some of the home remedies treatment. They may spread to the underside of tongue and floor of the mouth during the second stage.
Most people normally discover that they are suffering from oral cancer during the second stage when it has already caused a big damage. The chances of survival are higher when cancer is discovered early. It can be treated using various treatments like surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Sometimes as a result of loss of saliva and or illnesses, you can develop an over growth of yeast in the oral cavity. Based upon your report of not remembering traumatic incidents and/or food irritants, you may have a contact allergy occurring, in such case you would normally have ulceration at the site instead of a papillary swelling, but without seeing it, I can only theorize what is occurring.
One of the problems with tongue irritation and trauma is that you generally don’t remember it occurring, and after it has happened you continue to traumatize the site because of the resultant swelling. You should always have a dentist examine your bumps on side of tongue. If it persists or gets worse have it evaluated by either an oral medicine specialist or an oral surgeon.

Can Lie Bumps form on the Side of the Tongue

Among the many not-that-serious health conditions that can easily be treated on your own, you also have lie bumps on tongue. The condition, which is medically called as transient lingual papillitis, leads to appearance of tiny bumps on your tongue, which causes a fair deal of discomfort to you. This should not be a cause of worry for you, as there are several home remedies for lie bumps on tongue that effectively resolve the issue.
A Myth about Lie Bumps
There is a very popular myth about lie bumps on side of tongue. For a very long time, people thought that a person goes on to develop these bumps, if he/she speaks lies. This is why the term “lie” is used while a mention is made of the condition.  The fact obviously is that, this issue has nothing to do with lying and, there are other causative factors, which you are going to see in the next section.
Causes Lie Bumps
Before you begin to read about treating these little bumps on tongue, have a brief look at the causes and symptoms of the condition. Firstly, the following are few of the chief causative factors of the condition:

  • Spicy food:Excess intake of spicy and hot food stuffs increase the vulnerability to lie bumps.
  • Food allergies:You can develop the condition as an allergic reaction to certain foods.
  • Indigestion and heartburn:When you are suffering from indigestion/heartburn, there is a chance of having the little bumps on tongue.
  • Vitamin deficiency:Deficiency of vitamins, especially the vitamin B12, is another major cause of the issue.
  • Infections:Infections of the oral cavity caused by bacteria/fungus could lead to lay bumps as well.
  • Constipation:You become more prone to the condition, when you have severe constipation

 Which STDs Cause Bumps on Side of your Tongue

White bumps on the side of your tongue can also result from sexually transmitted diseases or infections. The major STD that results to this tongue condition includes syphilis, HIV and herpes simplex virus. These infections are also accompanied with other symptoms that include sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, rashes on genitals and some other parts of the body among other symptoms.
Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The symptoms of this infection vary depending with the stage. It results to a single painless bump during the primary stage. The secondary stage is normally accompanied with multiple sore and rash on the feet soles and palm. The sores also develop on the mouth and genitals. Syphilis is transmitted through sexual activities and also from the mother to the baby during delivery. This infection is treated using antibiotic injection or taking a course of anti-biotic tablets.
HIV infection is the other common cause of white bumps on side of tongue mouth including the mouth. It is also accompanied with other symptoms like sore throat, dry cough, sores on the skin, rapid weight loss, fatigue and pneumonia among other symptoms. There is no treatment for HIV and AIDS, it is therefore important to protect yourself by having protected sex, having one faithful sexual partner and getting tested after every three month.

How do you Treat Bumps on your Tongue Side

Home remedies are great. We know the temptation to try one for almost any condition is real. But there are some cases where you should really see a doctor. For instance if your tongue  pimples  match the characteristics listed in scarlet fever, herpes,  Kawasaki disease, cancer or allergic reactions especially in children, please urgently see  a doctor. Bleeding, having tongue bumps with sore throat and cough, are also other signs that you should not be trying a home remedy.
Inflamed taste buds, or lie bumps you can attempt to treat. However, even the home remedies will be of real use to you, only when you adhere to these tips. Therefore; please do make a very careful note of these salient aspects and become redeemed of the lie bumps.

  • If you are really serious to treat the bumps on tongue, then make it a point to stay away from spicy and fried foods.
  • Equally important is the aspect that your everyday diet contains foods that are rich in vitamin B.
  • Your staple diet should be a balanced one where, your body gets a steady supply of all the required nutrients.
  • Consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • You can easily alleviate the discomfort related to bumps on side of tongue, if you ensure that you drink lot of cold beverages daily.
  • Maintaining proper oral hygiene is one of the most critical points, to both treat and also prevent transient lingual papallitis. Thus, make sure that you clean the tongue 2 times daily as well floss it at least 3-4 times every week.
  • Stay away from all forms of tobacco smoking. This is highly relevant from the perspective of both treatment and prevention of these little bumps on side of tongue.
  • Identify the foods that can cause allergic reactions for you and, immediately eliminate them from your daily diet. The significance of this particular aspect in treating lie bumps on tongue can never be overstated.
  • As stress is among the major causes, take to yoga, meditation or any relaxation technique of your choice. Do not allow stress to overwhelm you!
  • Keep drinking plenty of water in a day. This is a definite way to flush out the various toxins from within the body.

Home Remedies for Tongue Bumps

In majority of instances, these bumps disappear by themselves. The primary objective of the natural remedies is to alleviate the discomfort related to the condition.
Figs with Boiled Water
When you are worried as to how to alleviate the discomfort resulting from the bumps on tongue, this is a remedy for you. Figs contain several vital vitamins and antioxidants and, hence very effectively fight against the condition. Take 1 tbsp. of dried figs and 1 glass of boiled water and directly consume this mixture.
Salt Water Gargle
The salt water gargle is among the best remedies to get rid of lie bumps. Once you start to use it, you do not have to wait too long to feel relief. In fact, this wonderful remedy will ensure that the bumps do not lead to any infection.
Cold Compress
Do you think that going with the options available in the mainstream medicine is the only way to beat bumps on side of tongue? If yes, then you are fully mistaken! The cold compress will relieve your physical distress faster than you expect! When such a simple remedy is doing the job for you, there is no need even to think in lines of regular medication.
Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
This remedy, which is a blend of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, is of immense value when you want to be redeemed of lie bumps. Baking soda, being an alkaline substance, very effectively fights against the acidity in your body, while hydrogen peroxide is a powerful antibacterial agent. Simply take the solution of the mixture and gurgle at least twice every day.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Water
Here, you have one more hydrogen peroxide-based remedy, which provides quick relief to you if you are wondering how long do bumps on side of tongue last. Just do same as the salt water, the gurgling thing.
Magnesia Milk
If your priority is to recover fast from transient lingual papillitis, this is a remedy that you cannot afford to ignore! The magnesia milk is a proven antacid and it also treats constipation. Thus, it works effectively to treat the mouth bumps.
Mint Leaves

These leaves come loaded with strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects and, they also include many key phytonutrients. The leaves are so effective that the moment you start using them, you can consider yourself to be cured! Is this not great! So, do not delay anymore. You can wash the leaves with warm water and chew them to allow the juice to enter the bumps on side of tongue.
Gargling with Juice of Aloe Vera Leaf
When your main concern is to relieve lie bumps tongue as early as possible, then this is the remedy for you. The juice of aloe vera leaf is an excellent antidote against conditions like heartburn, acidity and constipation, etc. This juice improves the alkalinity within your body, too.
So, those are the home remedies for bumps on side of tongue for you. All the remedies that have been discussed here are tried and tested ones and hence, you need not be doubtful about them. You can use any remedy of your preference.

Bumps on Nipples: Causes, Pregnant, White Spots, Swollen Glands, Treatment

Spots that look like pimples can form anywhere on the body. In fact, the appearance of such bumps on nipples of breast can be discouraging. With so much fear over breast cancer and other related disorders, a bump that form on nipple can make you switch into panic mode. Luckily, most strange looking little pimples on the breast are northing to be worried about, though you should be sure that they are harmless by paying a visit to your doctor. Finding out what causes breast bumps, how to avoid occurrence of the and how to treat them is very important in managing this condition.
Some of the symptoms for bumps on nipple may include:

  • white spots on the nipples in men and women in the form of nodules or stains;
  • itching and burning;
  • aggravation during the period;
  • inflamed nipples

Bumps on Nipples Causes

In any cases, bumps and pimples on the nipple are often benign. It is common to have small, painless bumps on the areola. Pimples and blocked hair follicles are also normal and can occur to anyone at any time. On the nipple, bumps are raised patches of skin, while pimples often take the form of whiteheads. If the bump becomes painful or itchy and shows up with symptoms like discharge, redness, or rashes, it could indicate another condition that needs to be treated.
Why do you have bumps on nipples?
Common causative factors are:
Acne
Nipples are an important part of female breast and are an area richly supplied by glands including sweat glands and sebaceous glands. Pimples may appear here, as on any other area of your body. A pimple appears when the duct draining any of these numerous glands becomes clogged up. Secretions start getting accumulated within the gland and the glands are unable to drain them. Slowly a pimple swells up to form a whitehead.
Acne is one possible causative factor for appearance of these bumps. These acne breakouts can take place at any time and age, though it is observed the most during puberty and around menses in adult females, and on any part of the body having hair follicles. When a hair follicle on your nipple gets clogged with dirt, oil and dead skin cells, acne might appear. While it is nothing to panic about, acne can leave a scar if left untreated.
Montgomery tubercles
Areola helps in holding the nipple and Montgomery glands ooze some lubricating agent for evening out the moisture level during breast feeding. Number of Montgomery glands differs with age as it is less in number in case of children but after puberty the number is increased. Mostly, number of the Montgomery glands is between 5 and 20.
Another causative factor behind pimple-like bumps on nipples is Montgomery glands. According to Breast Notes, these bumps don’t increase in size and look like goose bumps around or on the nipple. Montgomery tubercles secrete a fluid to protect the nipple.
They most commonly occur in women above 30 years of age. There are special sebaceous glands spread in the areola, the area around the nipple. These glands are full of sebum, a substance vital to keep the skin supple, soft and well lubricated. During pregnancy and breast feeding or lactation, puberty or phases of sexual stimulation, when there is a rise in hormonal levels, these glands swell up and become full of sebum till the rim.
Blockage of hair follicles
As in most parts of your body there are some hair follicles around your nipples, which may occasionally get blocked due to accrual of dirt, sebum and oil. At times, dead skin may also accumulate causing blockage of hair follicle and appearance of bumps on nipples. Sometimes you may also suffer from an ingrown hair around your nipple. This usually affects men with hairy breast and may result in a painful, swollen bump, which needs to be removed by surgery.
Yeast infection
At times, bumps on your nipple that look like pimples might be a rash due to a fungal infection, such as yeast, according to DermNet NZ. As the breasts are an area of body that often gets sweaty and retains moisture, they are a favorable breeding ground for fungus such as yeast, which grows rapidly in damp and moist environments. A yeast infection mostly appears in the fold under the breasts and nipples as a red, itchy and inflamed rash.
Like groin and armpits, breasts become often sweaty and thus more susceptible to fungal infection like growth of yeast. This may lead to development of pimples on the nipple.
Milk blisters
This are often misdiagnosed as spots on your nipple. It is a bleb that appears as a tiny white spot on the top of the nipple and that looks like a small, milk-filled blister. The blister often seems to cover one nipple opening or pore. It can cause pain and tenderness and pain while breastfeeding or pumping milk.
A sucking milk blister is often larger and is caused due to the baby taking only the nipple into its mouth during suckling, exerting too much pressure on the tip of the nipple. Milk blebs usually go away by themselves within a couple of days when the baby is latched on better. Painful and persistent blebs often need to be treated before they disappear.
Unhygienic life style
Inadequate bathing habits, insufficient cleaning of the breast area, using dirty or used undergarments may provide a susceptible environment for germ attack and pimple development on nipple. If dirt is allowed to gather on the skin because of unhygienic lifestyle and habits you may develop bumps on nipples.
Poor quality clothing
If you are prone to nipple bumps you are advised to use cotton under garments as they help to soak the moisture and sweat and keep the affected skin dry. Cotton fabric also allows passage of fresh air. Nylon or other synthetic fabrics used for making under garments may be a fashionable choice but for health purposes cotton undergarments are always suitable and comfortable.
Improper size of undergarments
Most women do not know the exact required size of their bras and use wrong sized ones. Tight bras are a cause of many problems as they block the adequate blood circulation. They may also cause Montgomery glands obstruction by blocking the ducts in areola of the nipple which leads to formation of pimples on nipple.
Overproduction of milk
Pimple growth is a common occurrence in breastfeeding mothers, as during this time Montgomery glands are very active. Over secretion of milk in the mammary glands also causes appearance of pimple like structures on the nipple. Sometimes the duct becomes blocked and clogged with dry milk.
Sub-areolar abscess
Sub-areolar abscesses are an accumulation of pus that develops in breast tissue. They are most commonly caused by mastitis, which is related to breastfeeding. But this can also occur in women who aren’t currently breastfeeding. Subareolar abscesses appear as a tender, swollen lump under an areolar gland. It’s often painful. In women who aren’t breastfeeding, this could be a sign of breast cancer.
Accident or trauma
Accidental trauma leading to injury or bruising of breast may also cause appearance of spots on them.
Breast cancer
The chances of pimples or bumps on your nipples being a symptom of breast cancer are very rare but you are still advised to get your breast examined by your doctor. This is particularly necessary when you also suffer from discharge from your nipple.
Other reasons
Some other factors behind appearance of bumps on nipples are leading a sedentary lifestyle, undertaking a lot of stress and mental tension and digestive disorders.

Bumps on Nipples Pregnant

Small bumps on the nipple are normal. Their job is to secrete an oily lubricant that keeps your nipples soft and supple. If one or some of the bumps are painful, and seem enlarged, they could be blocked. Just as you get pimples on your face from blocked oil glands, you can get them on your nipples, too. Don’t squeeze them; warm compresses can help open them up again.
Apart from that, a woman can develop bumps on her nipples due to hormonal changes during pregnancy. Too frequent recurrences may indicate health problems in a woman and may require special physiotherapeutic procedures and the use of lecithin.
White bumps on nipples are a frequent condition in pregnant and breastfeeding women. Often a woman may manage it herself, but still it will be reasonable to consult a doctor. White spots in young nulliparous girls appear very rarely, but they are the warning sign and require medical examination
The pimples may be accompanied by itchiness some time. If the itching has been going on for a while without relief and without change, then it’s probably time to see a doctor. S/he can rule out any serious nipple issues, and might recommend you see a dermatologist for tests to determine just what’s causing the itchiness, and what might be done about it.

White Spots on Nipples but not Pregnant

White spots on the nipples rarely are the sign of some serious disorder. In some cases, these spots may indicate cancer or a damage caused by an infectious agent. However, they can appear even if you are not pregnant as well, although it is a sign of pregnancy to some women.
A whitehead pimple on the nipple may appear both in men and women at any age. If there are no other symptoms or underlying factors like pregnancy and lactation, then acne is diagnosed. However it is strictly recommended not to make a self-diagnosis in case with whitehead pimples on the nipples, a visit to a sinologist is absolutely necessary.
A white spot on the nipple may be a congenital cosmetic defect caused by the wrong location of sebaceous glands. This disorder is called Fordyce spots. When the oils get blocked in the sebaceous gland, bumps on nipples are formed.
This disease is caused by the bacteria Candid albicans which is the element of the condition on all pathogenic floras in the intestine and vagina in women, and it is also present on the skin and in the environment. Pathology develops with the underlying factors leading to the depression of immune respond.

Bumps on Nipples Treatment

If a pimple appears on your nipple, it is advisable to visit your doctor for a physical examination to rule out that it is not breast cancer. A pimple may be actually just a Montgomery tubercle, as mentioned above. Many cases of breast cancer may manifest over the surface as a pimple that discharges fluid, that is painless and without any other sign.
So, a complete medical physical exam is important. Once you’re certain it is a pimple, you may start treating it. The most important thing to remember is that never burst, pop or squeeze a pimple on nipple. This action can possibly infect it and aggravate the situation. Infection from an infected pimple on nipple might spread to the inner breast tissue, resulting in abscess formation there.
Finding out the underlying cause of pimple formation is vital for proper treatment of pimple in the nipple. The following measures help to remove and prevent appearance of bumps on nipples:

  • Regular cleansing of affected area with mild cleanser helps to remove the dirt and germs and cure zit on nipple.
  • If clogging takes place in Montgomery glands, then dab the nipple area with warm water which helps in softening the skin and then gently exfoliate the skin for removal of dead skin cells or dry milk.
  • Pimple removing creams are available in the market, which include chamomile or calendula based creams. Application of these creams helps to clear the pimples.
  • Application of purified hypoallergenic lanolin after breast feeding is beneficial for prevention of pimple development.
  • If you have topical fungal infections that you must seek medical advice and start with a topical antifungal medicine or ointment.
  • If the pimple is minuscle, or appears as a white head, apply gentle warm compress over it. This would soften it, and help excrete the accumulated sebum from inside bumps on nipples.
  • A pimple that is red, inflamed or painful is likely to be infected. Its treatment requires topical antibiotic creams. Use mupirocin ointment twice a day. Keep applying it till the pimple vanishes.
  • Consuming less sugar and supplementing with probiotics may also help in treating the pimples, according to DermNet NZ.
  • It is crucial to treat infected pimples as soon as possible to prevent the spread of infection in the breast tissue.
  • The suitable brand of oral contraceptive may decrease premenstrual acne. This is something that has to be discussed with the doctor.
  • Some of the most stubborn forms of nipple acne may cause formation of cysts or lesions, which

How to treat bumps on nipples with home remedies
Salicylic acid soaps

Use a soap featuring cucumber and salicylic acid as its core ingredients. Cucumber and salicylic acid act as drying agents who prevent clogging of oil on hair follicles or pores. Be cautious though to not rub the area harshly as it may result in excessive loss of body oil. By gently scrubbing it, the dead cells are removed from the affected area while bathing. Exfoliation will also help cure the acne efficiently.
Healthy diet
Individuals, who eat more fresh vegetables and fruits and cut down their milk and sugar consumption, get lesser acne automatically. Eating five, six walnuts daily will help prevent skin inflammation as it contains anti-inflammatory agents like omega-3 fatty acids. Remember that omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish, such as herring, salmon and sardine, flaxseeds and leafy green veggies and it is better to use these healthy foods raw wherever possible as oxygen harms the acids.
Drink extra water
Water helps get rid of the toxins in body and boosts overall skin health. Recommended intake of water ranges from 2.2 liters to 3 liters. Besides water intake, significant reduction of sugar will help in prevention of pimple formation. Sugar causes production of more insulin, which in turn activates pimple producing hormones.
Drink green tea
This healthy beverage is rich in antioxidants, which help fight harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals cause a lot of harm to body cells and speed up the aging process. So never skimp on drinking sugar free green tea as a healthy alternative to drinks like smoothies, sodas and sweet juices if you want to get rid of bumps on nipples.
Aloe vera
This is an extremely effective anti-inflammatory and soothing agent which makes it valuable in fighting acne problems. Its therapeutic effect is due to presence of lectins, anthraquinones and polysaccharides. Take some fresh Aloe Vera leaves and extract the gel out of the skin. Apply the gel on the bumps on nipples immediately after cutting it.
Fuller’s earth
This works wonders on acne-prone or oily skin. It dries up excess oil from the skin and unblocks the pores from clogging. But it never over-dries the skin. Simply prepare its paste by mixing fuller’s earth, sandalwood and rosewater in equal quantity and apply on the affected nipple as a pack. Wash off after fifteen minutes using warm, clean water and rejuvenate your skin.
Radish seeds, milk and honey
Take one tablespoon of radish seeds, one tablespoon of milk and one tablespoon honey and blend these ingredients properly to prepare a smooth paste. Apply a thick layer on the pimples on nipples and allow it to work its effect for two hours. Wash it off with cool water and then moisturize the surface. This mixture has been used as a remedy for pimples since a long time and it has proved to be very effective. The paste can also preserved up to six days under refrigeration by storing it in an airtight container.
Cinnamon powder and lemon juice
Blend one tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice with a tablespoon of cinnamon powder and churn the mixture properly. Apply a thin layer of this mixture on affected nipple. Allow mixture to dry for an hour before washing it off with cool water. This mixture can be used daily, but take care in case it causes irritation to your skin.
Toothpaste
It is a common home remedy for treating pimples on skin. The toothpaste dries up the acne which is caused by over active oil glands. Apply a thin layer of toothpaste on the bumps on nipples using a soft brush and allow it to dry for about half an hour. Wash it off gently with cool water and repeat the steps daily. Be careful in case it leads to irritation.
Garlic juice
Garlic contains antibiotics, which abolish acne causing bacteria. Peel a garlic clove. Crush the peeled clove and place it on the pimple on nipple. It will heal the acne quite fast. Instead of using crushed garlic, you can also squeeze the garlic juice out and apply it on your skin.
Ginger juice
Pimples developed due to some yeast infection in the skin folds can be treated by regular cleaning and applying ginger juice to the pimple several times a day.
Aspirin paste

Prepare an aspirin paste. Aspirin contains salicylic acid, which dries up zits and decreases inflammation caused by acne. This makes it the perfect material for treating bumps on nipples.
Crush 2 aspirin tablets and mix with one tablespoon of water and one teaspoon of honey. Apply to the affected area on pimple, and allow it to dry for ten minutes. Wash off with cool water.
Calamine lotion
For pimples that don’t go away, apply calamine lotion to the nipple with a cotton ball. You can leave calamine lotion on the pimples for entire day or apply before going to bed at night. The calamine lotion dries up excess oil and sebum.

Cyst on Eyelid: Lump, Bump, Sebaceous, Chalazion, Stye, Removal, Get Rid

What causes cyst on eyelid? A cyst is a closed sac-like structure that is not a normal part of the tissue where it is located. They are common and can occur anywhere in the body in people of any age. Sometimes they may be felt as an abnormal or new lump or bump. Cysts usually are filled with gases, liquids such as pus, or semisolid substances like tissue debris. Since cysts vary in size, some may be detectable under a microscope or they can grow so large that they displace normal organs and tissues. The outer wall of a cyst is called the capsule.

What Causes Cyst on Eyelid?

A chalazion is a cyst on eyelid (or lump) in the upper or lower eyelid caused by inflammation of a gland of the lid. It may be soft and fluid-filled or firmer. A chalazion is also referred to as a Meibomian cyst, tarsal cyst, or conjunctival granuloma.
Eyelid Cyst Symptoms

  • Lumps on eyelids or around eyes
  • Redness
  • Swelling of the eyelid
  • Tenderness
  • Discoloration
  • Discharge
  • Eye crusting
  • Pain
  • Discomfort when blinking
  • Itchiness

Many people can feel an eyelid cyst forming, but others have no idea when one is developing. If you happen to have any of the symptoms listed above, try your best not to touch or rub your eyes, and make an appointment with your eye doctor.
The eyelids contain specialized oil-producing gland which discharge their secretions onto the surface of the eyes, and are essential in preventing the tear film from evaporating too quickly. If the ducts of the Meibomian glands become blocked the resultant collection of oils may act as a ‘foreign body’ resulting in an inflammatory reaction and a rapidly enlarging reddish lump in the eyelid.
This is more likely to occur where there is associated inflammation of the margin of the eyelids. Occasionally there may be two or more such cysts in a single lid, and more than one eyelid can be involved.

Causes of cyst on Eyelid

The transfer of dirt, debris, and bacteria into or around your eyes can lead to the formation of these unsightly lumps or cysts. The most common causes of eyelid cysts are:

  • Staph bacteria
  • Eye duct/gland blockage
  • Poor hygiene
  • Dirty contact lenses
  • Cosmetics
  • Leaving make-up on overnight
  • Touching or rubbing eyes, especially with unwashed hands

Types of cyst on eyelid bumps

There are three types of common eyelid bumps. The type and underlying cause of your eyelid bump will determine the best course of treatment.
Styes
This is the most common type of eyelid bump. Styes occur when bacteria get into the oil glands in the eyelids. A stye is a round, red bump that appears close to your eyelashes. It can make your eyelid feel sore. It can also cause you to be sensitive to light and make your eye watery or feel scratchy. Typically a stye takes a few days to form, and you may have more than one at a time.
Chalazion
Is an inflammatory lesion that occurs when the oil-producing glands or tear gland in the eyelids become blocked. Usually, it grows further on your eyelid than a stye. It’s painless in most cases and can interfere with your vision depending on where it grows and how big it gets. Chalazia are non-infectious, chronic, and can last eight to sixteen weeks. Typically chalazia are not painful or tender, but they may need surgical removal if they do not resolve on their own. This surgery is performed by an ophthalmologist, and it entails cutting the cyst open and removing it.
Xanthelasma
This is a harmless, yellow cyst on eyelid that occurs when certain fats build up under the skin. These bumps tend to appear in older adults. In some cases, they indicate high cholesterol levels.
Sweat Gland Cysts
These cysts tend to be round, shiny, transparent lumps that appear near the tear ducts. This kind of cyst should be examined by your eye doctor to ensure that it is not something more dangerous, such as a squamous or basal cell carcinoma.
Keratosis
These cysts are a combination of keratin and tissue and are found in various forms. There are three types of keratosis cysts: actinic, seborrheic, and keratosis pilaris.
Inclusion Cysts
This cyst on eyelid is a white, filled with fluid, and cause a painless swelling of the eyelid. Although they are generally considered to be harmless, they should be examined by an eye care professional.

Lump on Eyelid

Eyelid bumps appear as painful, red lumps at the edge of the eyelid, typically where the lash meets the lid. Bacteria or a blockage in the oil glands of the eyelid causes most eyelid bumps. They are often harmless and don’t always require medical treatment. In most cases they go away on their own or with basic home care.
However, if an eyelid bump becomes increasingly painful, doesn’t respond to home treatments, or begins to interfere with your vision, you may want to talk to your doctor about ways to manage your symptoms or to look for signs of a more serious problem.
Symptoms of an eyelid bump
Most eyelid bumps appear as red or skin-colored lumps, and they typically occur along the edge of the eyelid. Sometimes, they can be tender, red, watery eyes, a gritty, scratchy sensation in the eye and sensitivity to light.
Since a cyst on eyelid may be a mild or harmless, some can indicate a more serious condition. You should see your doctor if any of the following occur:

  • you’re having trouble seeing
  • your eyes are extremely watery
  • there’s copious discharge from your eye
  • the white part of your eye changes color
  • your eyes hurt even in low lighting
  • your eyelid bump bleeds, gets worse, grows very big, or is very painful
  • your eyelid is scaly, crusty, or red, which can indicate an infection
  • your eyelid has blisters, which can indicate an infection

If a stye or chalazion doesn’t go away over time with home care, you should have a doctor look at it to make sure it’s not a sign of a more serious medical condition or to discuss options to treat it.

Sebaceous Cyst under Eye

The scalp, ears, face, and upper arm are the common sites for sebaceous cysts, though they might happen anywhere on the skin except such places as the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. In the males a common place for them to develop is the scrotum and the chest. However, do not be surprised to form a sebaceous cyst under your eye.
Sebaceous cysts are very common in hairier areas, where in cases of longer duration they may result in hair loss on the skin surface almost immediately above the cyst on eyelid. They are very smooth to the touch, they vary in size, and generally round in shape. The nature of the contents of the sebaceous cyst under the eyelid, and of the surrounding capsule, can be determined by the question of whether the cyst has ever been infected.
With surgery, the cyst on eyelid might normally be excised in its entirety. Poor surgical technique or even the previous infection that lead to the scarring and the tethering of the cyst to the surrounding tissue can lead to the rupture during the excision and even the removal. Sebaceous cyst on your eyelid is very common and is brought about by the problems with the sebum-producing glands around the hair follicles covering our bodies. There are a couple of other dermatological cysts that have similar treatments
By through its very nature, a cyst on face will have an inflammation that is deep inside the pore walls, which is the reason why you aren’t seeing any typical head. Trying to lance or even squeeze a pimple like this is going to further irritate it, lead to more swelling, inflammation and even possible infection, and the delay the healing time. Not to mention that you run the risk of even rupturing the wall of your pore, and thus allowing the infection to spread much into surrounding areas underneath the skin.
A completely extracted cyst will not recur, even though the patient has a predisposition to cyst formation, further cysts can however develop in the same general area.

Cyst on Eyelid Removal

An eyelid cyst is usually a painless lump or swelling either on the upper or lower eyelid which is caused by a blockage in one of the glands that supplies fluid to lubricate the edge of the eyelid. This will require a minor operation to remove.
Things involved in cyst removal
Eyelid cysts are usually removed under local anesthetic which takes around thirty minutes and is done as a day case. During the operation the eyelid is carefully turned inside out and a small instrument is placed over the cyst to hold it secure. The cyst is then cut and scraped away and the wound washed with salt (saline) solution.
In this procedure, the contents of the cyst are released. This rapidly leads to resolution of the inflammation, and re-establishment of normal glandular function in the lids. A small amount of local anesthetic is injected under the skin of the eyelid, and the contents of the cyst are released from the inside surface of the lid (this avoids a skin incision and a visible scar). In a small proportion of patients the cyst may return and require a reoperation.
How long should I wait before considering this procedure?
Approximately half of all lid cysts settle with conservative measures within about 6 weeks. However, sometimes a small residual collection of oils persist once the inflammatory features have abated. This cyst on eyelid, and others which become very large and inflamed, require curettage to allow the lid and glandular function to return to normal. In general, a cyst which is responding to warm compresses and topical antibiotics should be observed, whilst those which do not respond, or become increasingly swollen, require minor surgery.
The period of recovery
You will be able to go home the same day and apart from some possible soreness, you should recover very quickly. After care activities to the wound are done comfortably at home.
The risk you should be able to know on cyst on eyelid surgical removal is that, the eyelid cyst removal is a routinely performed minor operation and has few notable side effects. No – although some patients suffer a period of a few months to years of recurrent, or multiple, eyelid cysts. As the accompanying blepharitis is brought under control, the risk of developing a cyst lessens.

Treatment for cyst on eyelid

Regular lid hygiene with warm compresses and topical antibiotic ointment to the eyelid margins reduces the likelihood of chalazion formation in those individuals at risk. Established cysts may resolve with this treatment, but those that do not settle require an incision and curettage. Omega oils (for example, in Flax seed oil supplements) are thought to improve the glandular function of the lids and reduce the risk of oil build-up and cyst formation. An “Eye Bag” can also help to improve the function of the Meibomian glands.
If symptoms of an eyelid cyst develop, you should visit an eye doctor who can diagnose the type of cyst you have and determine the cause. Most eyelid cysts can be diagnosed with a complete eye exam. The eyelids and eyelashes will be examined closely, and your eye doctor will check your eyelid structure, skin, and eyelash appearance. Once a proper diagnosis is made an appropriate treatment plan can be created.
How Eyelid Cysts are treated
If you have a cyst on your eyelid, the best treatment starts with better personal hygiene. Keep your hands and fingers and the area around your eyes clean at all times. Try your best not to touch or rub your eyes.
This can help prevent bacteria from spreading. If you use cosmetics, throw them away and buy new ones after the cyst is gone. This will prevent the spread of bacteria that could be infecting your eye make-up. Avoid sharing your eye make-up, even with those closest to you.
If your cyst on eyelid is painful, becoming larger in size, or has lasted a long time, seek medical attention from an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
Your eye doctor will determine the appropriate treatment plan. Common methods of treatment include antibiotics and surgical removal. Your doctor can also show you what steps to take to prevent the cyst from recurring.
A common way to relieve discomfort from a cyst on the eyelid is to apply warm compresses. Hold the compress to the eyelid for five to ten minutes several times a day. Wash your eyelids with baby shampoo diluted with water, or use a commercial product designed to wash eyelids.
Cysts are usually only removed for cosmetic reasons. Rarely do they pose a significant threat to anyone’s overall eye health or vision. Most eyelid cysts do not obstruct vision or pose an immediate problem for the eye. Talk with your eye care provider about possible treatment options for a cyst on the eyelid.

Home Remedies for cyst on eyelid

The most common cause of eyelid cysts is blockage and inflammation of the oil-producing Meibomian glands in the eyelids as discussed above. People with a history of chalazion and those who often touch their eyelids with unclean hands are more prone to this problem. Some people have naturally thicker Meibomian gland secretions than others, making them susceptible to blocked oil glands leading to chalazions. Here are some of the best home remedies for eyelid cysts.
Warm Compress
A warm compress is one of the best remedies for eyelid cysts. The heat helps increase blood circulation to the area and promotes drainage of the gland. It also helps reduce pain and swelling. You just need to soak a soft cloth in hot water (clean and sterilized water) and hold this warm, moist cloth on your closed eyelid for 5 to 10 minutes. You can also try facial steaming.
Massage
Gently massaging the affected eyelid can help accelerate the process of draining. This will promote quickly. Using your fingers, gently massage the area in the upward direction.
Guava Leaves
Another popular home remedy for cyst on eyelid is guava leaves. The leaves contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce the swelling under eye and pain. In addition, their natural healing power helps speed up recovery. Warm these leaves in the microwave for a few seconds or simply put them in boiling water for 5 minutes. Place one warm leaf on the affected eye. You can also place a damp, warm cloth over it.
Acacia Leaves
Using an infusion prepared from acacia leaves can also help reduce the pain and swelling associated with eyelid cysts, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

  • Heat 2 cups of water and boil a handful of acacia leaves in it.
  • When the solution is comfortably warm, remove the leaves, soak a piece of clean cloth in the solution, and use it as a warm compress.
  • Repeat a few times a day for several days.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Many people have also reported positive results after using apple cider vinegar compresses for cyst on eyelid. Its anti- inflammatory and antiseptic properties help reduce pain and inflammation and even fight infection.

  • Put 2 teaspoons of organic raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in 1 cup of hot water. Soak a cotton ball in this solution and apply it on the affected area for about a minute. Follow this remedy three times daily for a few days.
  • Also, mix 1 tablespoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a cup of water. Drink it twice daily for a few weeks.

Castor Oil
This oil has high anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with an eyelid cyst. It can help bring down the size of a cyst quickly, which in turn means quick healing.

  • First, apply a warm compress over the affected eyelid for 5 minutes. Then, use a cotton swab to apply castor oil on the affected area. Follow this remedy twice daily for 1 to 2 weeks.
  • Alternatively, mix ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder with enough castor oil to make a thick paste. After washing the cyst with warm water, apply this paste on the affected area. Leave it on for 15 minutes, before rinsing with warm water. Repeat three times daily until the cyst is gone.

Green Tea Bags
They are also effective in treating cyst on eyelid. The green tea has anti- inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation and reduce the size of a cyst. Moreover, being rich in tannic acid, it also helps keep infection at bay. You just need to hold the moist tea bag over the affected eyelid for 5 minutes.

 Aloe Vera

Another effective treatment for cyst on eyelid is aloe vera. Its anti-inflammatory property can help reduce redness, swelling and inflammation. In addition, it has antibacterial properties that help fight infection.

  • Cut open a fresh aloe leaf and extract the gel. Apply the gel directly on the affected area. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes, and then rinse it off with lukewarm water. Repeat this remedy a few times daily for a week.
  • Another option is to soak a cotton ball in aloe vera gel for 5 minutes, and then apply it on the cyst for 20 minutes. Wait 2 hours, and then reapply again. Use this treatment for a week.

More references

  1. Chalazion(eyelid cyst): http://www.medicinenet.com/chalazion/article.htm
  2. Home remedies for eyelid cyst: http://www.top10homeremedies.com/home-remedies/home-remedies-for-eyelid-cysts-chalazions.html/2
  3. Skin cyst: http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/skin-cyst/Pages/Introduction.aspx
  4. Cyst symptoms and causes: http://www.medicinenet.com/cyst_symptoms_and_causes/views.htm
  5. Everything you should know about eyelid cysts: http://www.eyehealthweb.com/eyelid-cyst/

Tingling Lips Causes: Numb, in one Spot, and Tongue, no Cold Sore, How to Stop

A lip that tingles is something that has probably happened to all of us from time to time, but never given it much thought. Unfortunately, in some cases, tingling lips may be a warning sign of something that shouldn’t be ignored. Here in our discussion, we will take a look at some of the possible causes of this condition including numb lips, the symptoms that may go with these issues, and a number of natural treatments for tingling lips.

What Are Tingling Lips?

Also known as numb lips, is a problem that is fairly easily recognized. Your lips feel similar to when your feet or hands fall “asleep” or “pins and needles.” It is therefore a tingling sensation around the lips and a type of numbness.
The numbness or tingling may begin a little in the affected area and there after spread to the entire lips, depending on what the causes of the tingling is. Unfortunately, this is an issue that you may want to take a deeper look at.

Tingling Lips

Tingling of the lips makes someone feel like “pins and needles” on the lips as many may describe. It is a common problem caused due to nerve damage when a person is exposed to extreme temperature. There are several causes for getting this condition ranging from allergic food products to cosmetic factors. Tingling of lips may vary in duration with respect to its causative factor.
For some cases it may be for few seconds and for others it can extend for hours. There may or may not be numbness and pain when tingling of lips occur. For some people, it may affect their consciousness or may cause intense headache. If there is repeated tingling of lips, accompanied with numbness you need to seek immediate medical care.
Symptoms
Some of the common symptoms with tingling of lips are burning feeling on lipsdryness, numbness (for few seconds), chapped lips, pain (mild to moderate), warmth and redness over the lips, and inflammation of lips. For some people it may cause tingling on other parts of the body.
It can be a symptom of stroke or any complicated nervous disorder if tingling of lips is seen with numbness on one side of your body. Lips that tingle can be a warning signal if it influences your conscious level or alertness. There may be slurring of speech or sudden inability to speak when nervous system gets affected.
For some people there may be inability to move body parts on one side indicating partial paralysis. Others vision may get affected causing blurred vision and there can be worst headache which they have never had before. All these are serious symptoms wanting prompt medical care and hospitalization.
Other Symptoms Can Occur with Tingling Lips
Now that we have covered the initial symptoms of this problem and some of the things that might cause it to occur, you should be aware that there are other symptoms that may become part of the lips that tingle package.
Damaged lips
One of the symptoms and side effects of twitching lips or numbs lips is damaged lips in various forms. Chapped lips, dried out lips, or redness can all be part of having tingling or numb lips.
Painful moments
Sometimes, numb lips will get these bursts of pain and discomfort. These are often accompanied by one or more of the damaged lip symptoms, along with tingling or numb lips.
Sores
Have it in your mind that, sores are also something that comes with lips that tingle. They may be part of an allergy or oral herpes but when they occur, they may break up the numbness with a point of pain.

Why do my Lips feel Numb?

Lip tingling is abnormal feeling, and lip numbness is decreased or absent feeling in the lip. Both sensations, medically called paresthesia, arise from conditions affecting sensory nerves in the lips, but usually not from neurological diseases. Skin diseases also rarely cause tingling or numbness but rather itch, burning or pain in the lips.
There are several causes for lips numbness. Allergic foods can cause tingling in some people. It can be due to chemical burn or change in cosmetics. All conditions that cause lip tingling like chapped lips may be the reason for lips numbness sensation.
When a person is exposed to extreme weather conditions of heat or cold temperature, there can be tingling of lips. You may also get this problem due to the infection caused by herpes simplex virus. A simple cold sore can cause your lips to feel numb. Injury caused to lips may also affect the tissue covering of lips.

Tingling Lips Causes

This condition may develop as a sort of symptom before the allergies, imbalances in the blood chemistry, as well as various problems that may occur neurologically. It becomes extremely vital to visit a physician, when symptoms such as numbness, heat, and tingling as well as other sensations which cause irritation in the lips and thus examination by a doctor becomes extremely important.

Causes the Tingling Lips

Tingling of lips can have a number of causes behind them. Some of them are temporary issues that can be easily solved or will just go away on their own. Other causes have more serious implications that need to be looked at with a doctor. Here are the causes of lip tingling—both a mild and serious.
Allergies

If you have tingling or numb lips, they might be caused by something as simple as allergies. It could be an allergic reaction to a food product or any other allergen. The lips tingling could be caused by an allergic reaction to something that does not come in contact with your lips at all.
Chemical allergies like allergic reaction to cosmetics, soap, medicines or other substances can also result in tingling of lips.
Mineral deficiency
The tingling or numb lips may be the result of a mineral deficiency. A lack of potassium or sodium, for example, may be the cause of tingling of lips. A lack of phosphate can also be a mineral-deficient cause of numb lips.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is when your blood sugar levels drop below a normal level. This can be due to things like diabetes, kidney failure, and infections. One of the symptoms of hypoglycemia can occasionally be tingling or numb lips.
Oral herpes
This is a condition which can cause what are commonly referred to as cold sores, can also cause numbness of the lips or lip tingling.
Raynaud’s phenomenon or disease
Raynaud’s phenomenon and Raynaud’s disease is when the blood vessels that are close to the surface of the skin become contracted due to low temperatures. When this occurs, it can cause your lips to go tingly, as well as other appendages. Raynaud’s phenomenon is when the cause is known like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), systemic sclerosis, or vasculitis. When the cause is not known, it is Raynaud’s disease.
Infections
Serious infections like Hansen’s disease (also known as leprosy) and shingles can cause tingling lips. In last years, leprosy infection caused by Mycobacterium leprae, was reported only from Brazil, Myanmar and some African countries. Several years after infection, neurological symptoms may appear in the lips, other parts of the face (eyes, eyelids) or distal parts of the limbs. Numbness and reduced sensitivity to hot and cold are typical symptoms.
Multiple sclerosis
This is a disease that can cause issues with the nervous system being able to communicate with its various parts. MS can cause tingling of lips. With these causes come a few other symptoms you may not have considered that go along with tingling or numb lips. These secondary symptoms you may want to pay attention to.
Sea food Poisoning
Ciguatera Fish Poisoning: Big tropical fish, like tuna or mackerel, can cause tingling in the lips or other parts of the body few minutes or several hours after ingestion. Reversal of hot and cold sensations is also characteristic. Symptoms, lasting from hours to months, are caused by ciguatera toxin, produced by coral algae, accumulating in tropical fish and ingested by a human. Ciguatera poisoning is common in Central America, Caribbean, Australia and South Asia.
Scombroid Poisoning: In fish, not properly stored after being caught, histamine, the same substance as released in allergies, may build up and cause food allergy-like symptoms.

Tingling Lips Anxiety

If you ever get numb or tingly feelings in your body, and if you’re also an anxious person, the two are almost certainly connected. Numbness and tingling of the lips are very common physical symptoms of anxiety. They might not sound like severe symptoms to someone who has never experienced them, but they can be uncomfortable at best and terrifying at worst.
The best place to start is why anxiety causes numbness and tingling in the first place. Why does anxiety cause numbness and tingling of lips? There are 2 ways that anxiety causes numbness and tingling:

  • incorrect breathing
  • misfiring fight or flight response

Incorrect Breathing
When you’re relaxed your breathing is slow, steady, and controlled. You breathe in deep, full breaths and your lungs take the oxygen you need and release it into your blood. As your lungs are taking oxygen from the air you’ve just breathed in, they’re also releasing carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is the waste that’s left behind from the oxygen you’ve breathed earlier.
You have this process going on all the time: taking oxygen in, letting carbon dioxide out. And with normal breathing the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide happens at just the right rate. But when you’re anxious this delicate process gets screwed up.
Anxiety makes you take faster, shorter breaths, which makes it much harder for your lungs to make the exchange between oxygen and carbon dioxide. Anxious breathing generally makes you breathe out more than you breathe in, which means you get rid of too much carbon dioxide. That destroys your oxygen/carbon balance.
Your carbon dioxide levels fall and your oxygen levels rise. When your oxygen levels get high enough it raises the alkalinity in your blood, making the blood vessels around your body narrow. Narrow blood vessels means it’s hard for blood and oxygen to reach the parts of your body farthest from your heart. Your extremities, like your hands, feet, and face, will tingle or go numb, since they’re effectively being starved of oxygen.
Misfiring Fight or Flight Response
The second way that anxiety can cause numbness and tingling is all to do with the fight or flight response. You’re probably familiar with this response. It’s a survival instinct that kicks in when you’re in danger.
If your life is ever in jeopardy your fight or flight response gets instinctively triggered, causing lots of physical changes that’ll help you to either fight the danger or to run away from it. Your breathing will quicken, your heart will race, your blood will rush to your large muscles, and your senses will all heighten. These changes can save your life if you’re in extreme danger, so the fight or flight response is a wonderful thing to have on your side.
If you feel anxious all the time, your subconscious gets confused and misinterprets your anxiety as a sign you’re in physical danger. So your fight or flight response misfires. In other words, it happens when you don’t need it to. One of the biggest physical changes that happens as part of the fight or flight response is that your blood rushes to the parts of your body where you most need it if you’re in danger.
That means places like your thighs, chest, and shoulders to help you fight or run, and also to your head to help you think your way to safety. All this blood has to come from somewhere, and that somewhere is the areas of your body that aren’t important if you’re in a fight for your life. Places like your fingers, your toes, your stomach, and your lips.
When the blood leaves these areas they go numb and may also tingle, since they no longer have blood or oxygen in them. It’s a lot like when your leg falls asleep if you sit on it for a long time. If you sit on your leg for ten minutes it stops any blood from getting to your foot. No blood in your foot makes it go numb.
When your fight or flight response misfires and the blood rush away from your foot it’s exactly the same thing. No blood in your foot equals numbness and tingling.

Lip Tingling no Cold Sore

Remember, tingling is a symptom and not a disease and that is why its actual cause has to be recognized in order to get its aid. Once we know the reason and treat it properly, this irritable condition can be got rid of. For example you can have this condition and not have a cold sore. We have discussed above that cold sore is one of the causes of lips tingling. If you have this condition and you cannot trace the cause, it is better if you visit your doctor if it gets worse.

Tingling Lips and tongue

Tingling lips and tongue is a kind of a symptom that may call for agent examination. If it is lips alone, you can negotiate with it, but if the tongue is involved you better seek medical help, and there are no specific ways to rescue yourself from it. If you are sure the situation is not alarming, you handle the tingly lips and tongue at home. This is why, a healthy lifestyle, correct sleep timings, healthy nutritive diet, less consumption of tobacco and alcohol can at least prevent it to occur or re-occur.

How to Stop Tingling Lips

If an individual suffers from lips that tingle, then he must consult a physician so as to explore the casual reasons, because tingling of lips is a symptom or sign and not an illness. Thereby the identification of the illness through the symptom becomes extremely important, in order to undergo a proper treatment. Few remedies that help to avoid the occurrence of tingling lips are:
Antihistamine is the most common medication for the relief of allergies, and thus is most commonly recommended by physicians. If diabetes is causing peripheral neuropathy, the blood glucose levels need to be checked in order to stop the recurrence of tingling lips.
Obstruct histamine-1 receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract and blood vessels of an allergic individual, thus causing the allergens to stop from acting and eventually stopping the tingling in the lips.
Individuals who suffer from panic attacks must practice yoga and other techniques for relaxation, in order to overcome the problems relating to stress and thereby the occurrence of tingling lips.

  • Various herbal remedies also help to cure herpes, which sometimes results in tingling lips.
  • The toothbrush should be changed on a regular basis as old tooth brushes invite organisms that cause cold sores and thrush.
  • Salty and acidic food must be avoided as it further aggravates the pain and sensitivity associated with this condition.
  • Carbonated drinks must also be avoided in such conditions
  • Petroleum jelly must be frequently applied to heal cracks and prevent numbness.
  • Foods rich in vitamin B must be consumed which includes cheese, yogurt, whole eggs, fish spinach and carrot.

Women who apply too much of cosmetics such as lipsticks and lip glosses must reduce the usage of such cosmetics as they contain various kinds of chemical substances which temporarily enhance the beauty of the lips but may sometimes cause damages such as the tingling of lips.
Natural Treatments for Tingling Lips
With some of the causes of tingling and numb lips, there are some natural treatments that can help stop the tingling and get your lips back to normal.
Vitamin Intake
If the tingling of lips is an outcome of deficiency of vitamins especially folate and B12, you can go for trusted capsules to eventually get away with this problem. There are quick relieves through this remedy if the cause is vitamin deficiencies.
Herbs
Lemon mint extract are very helpful in tingling lips especially in case of herpes virus. Also, lysine supplements, mint grass and milk based medicated products can help you get rid of tingling lips. There are many other herbal remedies like basil leaves, neem, etc. which heal the problem. Make sure you consult before choosing one.
Eat a balanced diet
As some of the causes of tingling lips are linked to certain mineral deficiencies, the best way to take care of those issues is eating foods to boost those minerals. Minerals that are no longer deficient can no longer cause your lips to go numb. This may also help if the cause is low blood sugar.
Chewing basil leaves
Chewing basil leaves may help clear out a mouth infection that is causing the numbness.
Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil can help clear up sores and a few of the minor bacteria that can cause tingling lips. The best way to do this is to use a clean cotton ball, dip it in peppermint oil, and then rub the oil around your lips.
Don’t pick at it
Numb or tingling lips can often come with sores and dry or cracked skin on the lip area. Don’t pick at it or tear off the dead skin. This can leave your lips open to more pain and damage. If you need to remove dead skin, take a cotton ball and dip it in lukewarm water and wipe the area (or use a very soft toothbrush). This can help clean out the area and clean off the dead skin without causing damage to the new skin.
More references

  1. Tingling lips and the causes: http://www.doctorshealthpress.com/health-articles/tingling-lips-causes-home-remedies
  2. Lightheadedness and weakness due to lip tingling: http://www.health24.com/Experts/Question/lip-tingling-lightheadedness-and-weak-20090217
  3. Causes of tingling lips: http://diseasespictures.com/tingling-lips/
  4. Numbness and tingling: https://migraine.com/migraine-symptoms/numbness-tingling/
  5. Causes of tingling and numb lips: http://www.healthhype.com/causes-of-tingling-or-numb-lips.html

Lower Eyelid Twitching: Left, Right, Bottom, Meaning, Superstition, How to Stop

An eyelid twitch, or blepharospasm, is a repetitive, involuntary spasm of the eyelid muscles. A twitch usually occurs in the upper lid, but it can occur in both the upper and lower lids. For most people, these spasms are very mild and feel like a gentle tug on the eyelid. Others may experience a spasm strong enough that it forces you to close your eyelid completely.

Lower Eyelid Twitching Meaning

Lower eyelid twitching typically occurs every few seconds for a minute or two. Episodes of eyelid twitching are unpredictable. The twitch may occur off and on for several days. Then, you may not experience any twitching for weeks or even months.
The twitches are painless and harmless, but they may bother you. Most spasms will resolve on their own without the need for treatment. In rare cases, eyelid spasms may be an early warning sign of a chronic movement disorder, especially if the spasms are accompanied by other facial twitches or uncontrollable movements.

Lower Eyelid Twitch Causes

Stress
While we’re all under stress at times, our bodies react in different ways. A twitching eye can be one sign of stress, especially when it is related to vision problems such as eye strain. Yoga, breathing exercises, spending time with friends or pets and getting more down time into your schedule are among the many ways to reduce stress that may be causing the twitch.
Tiredness
A lack of sleep, whether because of stress or some other reason, can trigger a twitching eyelid. Catching up on your sleep can help.
Eye strain
Vision-related stress can occur if, for instance, you need glasses or a change of glasses. Even minor vision problems can make your eyes work too hard, triggering eyelid twitching. Schedule an eye exam and have your vision checked and your eyeglass prescription. Computer eye strain from overuse of computers, tablets and smartphones also is a common cause of eyelid twitching. You may have breaks from your computer after every 20 minutes. This reduces eye muscle fatigue that may trigger eyelid twitching.
If you spend a lot of time on the computer, you might want to talk to your eye doctor about special computer glasses.
Caffeine: Too much caffeine can trigger lower eyelid twitching. Try cutting back on coffee, tea, chocolate and soft drinks (or switch to decaffeinated versions) for a week or two and see if your eye twitching disappears.
Alcohol: Try abstaining for a while, since alcohol also can cause eyelids to twitch.
Dry eyes
Many adults experience dry eyes, especially after age 50. Dry eyes are also very common among people who use computers, take certain medications, wear contact lenses and consume caffeine and/or alcohol. If you are tired with stress, this two can increase your risk of dry eyes.
If you have a lower eyelid twitching and your eyes feel gritty or dry, see your eye doctor for a dry eye evaluation. Restoring moisture to the surface of your eye may stop the spasm and decrease the risk of twitching in the future.
Nutritional imbalances
Some reports suggest a lack of certain nutritional substances, such as magnesium, can trigger eyelid spasms. Although these reports are not conclusive, I can’t rule this out as a possible cause of a twitching eye. If you are concerned that your diet may not be supplying all the nutrients you need, I suggest talking this over with your family doctor for expert advice rather than randomly buying over-the-counter nutritional products.
Allergies
People with eye allergies can have itching, swelling and watery eyes. When eyes are rubbed, this releases histamine into the lid tissues and the tears. This is significant, because some evidence indicates that histamine can cause eyelid twitching.
To offset this problem, some eye doctors have recommended antihistamine eye drops or tablets to help some eyelid twitches. But remember that antihistamines also can cause dry eyes. It’s best to work with your eye doctor to make sure you’re doing the right thing for your eyes.
If the spasms become chronic, you may have what’s known as “benign essential blepharospasm,” which is the name for chronic and uncontrollable eyelid movement. This condition typically affects both eyes. The exact cause of the condition is unknown, but the following may make spasms worse:
Benign essential blepharospasm is more common in women than in men. According to research finding, it affects approximately 50,000 Americans and usually develops in middle to late adulthood. The condition will likely worsen over time, and it may eventually cause blurry vision, increased sensitivity to light, and facial spasms.

Complications of lower eyelid twitching

Very rarely, eyelid spasms are a symptom of a more serious brain or nerve disorder. When the eyelid twitches are a result of these more serious conditions, they are almost always accompanied by other symptoms. Brain and nerve disorders that may cause eyelid twitches include:

  • Bell’s palsy (facial palsy), which is a condition that causes one side of your face to droop downward
  • dystonia, which causes unexpected muscle spasms and the affected area’s body part to twist or contort
  • cervical dystonia (spasmodic torticollis), which causes the neck to randomly spasm and the head to twist into uncomfortable positions
  • multiple sclerosis (MS), which is a disease of the central nervous system that causes cognitive and movement problems, as well as fatigue
  • Parkinson’s disease, which can cause trembling limbs, muscle stiffness, balance problems, and difficulty speaking
  • Tourette’s syndrome, which is characterized by involuntary movement and verbal tics

Undiagnosed corneal scratches can also cause chronic eyelid twitches. If you think you have an eye injury, see your optometrist immediately. Corneal scratches can cause permanent eye damage.
Lower Eyelid Twitching Meaning
The advent of technology has brought about much change in our everyday lives. However, some things still stay the same. Superstitions are one of them. Of all the numerous superstitions, the twitching of the right eye remains quite popular.
Right lower Eyelid Twitching Superstition

Culture has a significant role to play in superstitions. The belief system of your culture decides whether the twitching of the right eye is a positive or a negative sign. Certain cultures believe that this is a sign of Lady Luck paying you a visit, and will expect a favorable turn of events. On the other hand, other cultures shudder at the thought of the right eye twitching and anticipate negative events.
Chinese
The Chinese apply the concept of Yin and Yang to the right eye twitching superstition. According to ancient Chinese sayings, it indicates bad luck for a man and good fortune for a woman. It doesn’t stop here. The superstitions vary based on which part of the eye is twitching. Twitching of the lower eyelid might bring positivity, while a twitching eyelid is a sign that you are the subject of gossip. Another interesting and unique concept drawn from the Chinese Almanac is that twitching of the eyes can mean different things in different time of the day
Indian
Their superstitious interpretation of the right eye twitching is similar to that of the Chinese. The Indian belief also differentiates between men and women. However, unlike the Chinese system, it is believed that twitching of the right eye will bring benefits for a man and twitching of the left eye for a woman won’t leave her without added benefits.
African
The African interpretation of the right eye twitching superstition is much more deeply rooted in science as compared to the Chinese and Indian beliefs. They believe that twitching of the lower eyelid is indicative of the person shedding tears and that the twitching of the upper eyelid is indicative of meeting an unexpected person.
Lower Eyelid Twitching Superstition
Although the left eye twitching bad luck or good luck superstitions might make for a good reading, there is a scientific reason behind left eye twitching. Involuntary eye twitching also referred to as eye muscle spasm can be attributed to an eye problem known as blepharospasm. The condition is actually caused by uncontrollable contractions of the muscles around the eyelids.
This chronic, uncontrollable blinking of the eyes is the result of dry eyes, conjunctivitis or light sensitivity. In addition to this there is many brain or neurological disorders like epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, Tourette syndrome or certain eye allergies and injuries. Read on to know more about eye twitching – What does it mean.
Lower eyelid twitching can also be caused by certain conditions such as stress, air pollution, strained eyes or fatigue. If it is an extreme condition you need to consult a doctor who might prescribe oral medications or certain eye drops. In an extreme case, myectomy or surgery for treating blinking eyes may have to be performed to cure the excessive twitching of the eyes.
However, general twitching in the eyes can be cured with plenty of rest and cutting down on certain things like smoking, caffeine or alcohol. To know more about how to cure eye twitches read more on eye twitch remedies. So the next time your left eye twitches and you worry about a catastrophe befalling you, just stay calm and hope for the best.
In China, a twitching right eye for men signifies good luck, or maybe a major windfall. For us females, we’re not so lucky. A twitching left eye signifies good luck while a twitching right one is a strict no!
There is even a superstition based on an anatomical break down of the eye. If it is the lower eyelid that’s twitching, it means good fortune is headed your way. There’s yet another one that claims a twitching eyelid means someone is gossiping about you.
Next to the Chinese, the Indians are the Olympic champions when it comes to superstitions. The commonly believed one here is just the opposite of the Chinese version. Here a twitching left eye is definitely a good omen, while a twitching right one is considered inauspicious.

The Nigerians go with the Chinese version. Left eye – bad, Right eye – Good.

Now with this next one, you’ll be pleased it’s your right eye and not your left eye. It’s not clear where this one comes from, but according to it a twitching left eye means there’s soon going to be a death in the family. A twitching right one on the other hand means an impending birth.
To the Hawaiians, an eye twitch can either mean the arrival of a stranger, or that you’re soon going to mourn for someone.
In Cameroon and some other parts of Africa, a lower eyelid twitching means you will soon shed tears. As far as superstitions go, this one is quite scientific. Tears normally flow from the corner of the lower eyelid. Still on Africa, when the upper eyelid twitches, it’s a sure sign you’re going to meet someone you didn’t expect to see. This one’s also connected to anatomical science, it seems. Surprise and amazement are normally expressed in humans by the raising of the upper eyelids.
Right Bottom Eyelid Twitching
Millions of people suffer from eye twitching – in some it may be intermittent, brought on by a sudden increase of stress or sleeplessness. In others, it’s more pronounced and can interfere with day to day life. Regardless of which category a person falls into, there’s a goldmine of superstitions that revolve around eye twitching. Each culture seems to have its own take on the deeper significance of eye twitching.
In China for instance, where superstitions and myths frequently cross over into modern living, the chief superstition seems to be that a twitch in the right bottom eyelid twitching signifies good luck, maybe a major windfall. The entire situation seems to turn around in the case of females; for them, a twitching left eye signifies good luck while a twitching right one is a strict no! Even among the Chinese, there seem to be as many superstitions regarding eye twitching as the sufferers themselves.
There is even a superstition based on an anatomical break down of the eye. A twitch in the lower left eyelid means you can expect to cry soon while a corresponding one in the right eyelid means good fortune is headed your way. There’s yet another one that claims a twitching eyelid means someone is gossiping about you. We think this is a pretty cool one – always good to know the exact moment when your enemies are bad mouthing you.
In any case, all these mental calisthenics figuring out whether an eye twitch means you’re going to win the lottery or have the sky fall on your head, will probably give you enough stress to trigger off a whole new series of lower eyelid twitching.
Next to the Chinese, the Indians are the Olympic champions when it comes to superstitions. The commonly believed one here is just the opposite of the Chinese version. Here a twitching left eye is definitely a good omen, while a twitching right one is considered inauspicious.
Another superstition is a little more frightening than the above. It’s not clear where this one comes from, but according to it a twitching left eye means there’s soon going to be a death in the family. A twitching right one on the other hand means an impending birth.
To the Hawaiians, an eye twitch can either mean the arrival of a stranger, or that you’re soon going to mourn for someone.
Muscle spasms also happen on the eyelids and you can feel sudden movement of the eyelid muscle by yourself. The involuntary contraction of eyelids muscles occurs mostly to many individual and it is a common problem. The condition is irritating and it might be a serious health issue. Twitching of the eyelids can be attributed to an eye disorder known as blepharospasm.
Other neurological disorder can be related to involuntary blinking of the eye such as epilepsy, Tourette syndrome, Parkinson’s disease. Injuries on facial area can also cause involuntary eyelid blinking. Facial spasms on the eyelid can develop into inflammation and these calls for medical consultation. For these case medical checkup should be done to ensure the problem is done off.
Left Lower Eyelid Twitching
Muscle spasms also happen on the eyelids and you can feel sudden movement of the eyelid muscle by yourself. The involuntary contraction of eyelids muscles occurs mostly to many individual and it is a common problem. The condition is irritating and it might be a serious health issue. Twitching of the eyelids can be attributed to an eye disorder known as blepharospasm.
Left lower eyelid twitching could be the result of the dry eyes, conjunctivitis or due to light sensitivity. Other neurological disorder can be related to involuntary blinking of the eye such as epilepsy, Tourette syndrome, Parkinson’s disease. Injuries on facial area can also cause involuntary eyelid blinking. Facial spasms on the eyelid can develop into inflammation and these calls for medical consultation. For these case medical checkup should be done to ensure the problem is done off.
How to Stop Lower Eyelid Twitching
According to your culture, twitching of the left eye could have positive superstition. But the fact is that you need to get medical consultation if you experience facial spasms because it could be a symptom of neurological disorder like Parkinson’s disease that requires medical attention.
If you experience extreme left facial spasms that occurs for more than three consecutive days. You need to seek for medical advice. Rare cases of left spasms as symptom of Parkinson’s disease have been reported to health records. Left eye twitching could be due to other infections or allergies that need special medication. It is advisable to get doctor’s prescribed medication to relieve facial spasms. You will be give antihistamine and eye drops that will help to relieve the problem of eye twitching.

Home Remedies for Eye Twitching

If eye twitching is bothering you and it is becoming a health issue, no reason to panic when you can have the following tips to get rid of these problems at home.
Have enough time to sleep
It is advisable to sleep more than seven hours each day because the recommended time to sleep per day is between seven to eight hours. When you sleep less than this duration it can result to health problems. Lack of sufficient sleep greatly affects the eyes, to avoid the twitch of the right eye, go in your bed on time and relax to a deep slumber of about eight hours each day.
Maintain your eye well-lubricated
Having dry eyes contribute to lower eyelid twitching. Fortunately the issue of dry eyes can be solved at home. Take lukewarm water on a basin and mix it with two table spoonful of honey and clean your face. Wipe it using washcloth. The honey in the water has a soothing effect on the eye and it will keep it well moist. The honey also reduces irritation of the eye and keeps it well lubricated.
Sooth your eyes
When your eyes are stressed by action of watching television or movie in computer for long time, it can cause spasms in your eyes. To relieve these faster at home, take cold water on a basin and cold compress your eyes using washcloth. The eye muscles will relax.
Use milk drops

When your eyes are affected by allergies, smoke, pollution, dust particle and other chemicals like detergents, it is advisable to use cold milk by placing few drops in the affected eye. The milk has soothing effect that relieves irritation and twitching of the eye. Milk also lubricates your eye by moistening it.
Take a balance diet
Your diet at home will help you to escape problem of muscle spasms in the facial part. Ensure you consume food rich in vitamin, B12 and magnesium mineral. Green vegetables are good for magnesium, supplement your diet with vitaminB12 and bask on the sun every morning replenish vitamin.

More references

  1. Eyelid twitch: http://www.healthline.com/health/eyelid-twitch?m=2#overview1
  2. Lower eyelid twitching: http://www.steadyhealth.com/topics/lower-eyelid-twitching
  3. Eye twitching and eyelid twitches: http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/eye-twitching.htm
  4. Right eye twitching superstition: http://www.newhealthadvisor.com/Right-Eye-Twitching-Superstition.html
  5. How to stop eye twitching: http://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Eye-Twitching