Select City
location
Get my Location
search icon
phone icon in white color

Call Us

Book Free Appointment

Lingual Tonsils: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

The lingual tonsils, small bumps located at the base of our tongue, play a crucial part in our body’s defence against infections. However, they can themselves become infected due to various reasons such as viral or bacterial infections, exposure to allergens and even obesity. Lingual tonsillitis can lead to discomfort and potentially serious complications. If you're experiencing symptoms like a sore throat or difficulty swallowing, turn to the expert doctors at Pristyn Care for a comprehensive treatment plan suited to your individual needs.

The lingual tonsils, small bumps located at the base of our tongue, play ... Read More

anup_soni_banner
Book FREE Doctor Appointment
cost calculator
Anup Soni - the voice of Pristyn Care pointing to download pristyncare mobile app
i
i
i
i
Call Us
We are rated
2 M+ Happy Patients
700+ Hospitals
45+ Cities

To confirm your details, please enter OTP sent to you on *

i

45+

Cities

Free Consultation

Free Consultation

Free Cab Facility

Free Cab Facility

No-Cost EMI

No-Cost EMI

Support in Insurance Claim

Support in Insurance Claim

1-day Hospitalization

1-day Hospitalization

USFDA-Approved Procedure

USFDA-Approved Procedure

Best Doctors For Tonsillitis

Choose Your City

It help us to find the best doctors near you.

Bangalore

Delhi

Hyderabad

Delhi

Gurgaon

Noida

Ahmedabad

Bangalore

  • online dot green
    Dr. Divya Badanidiyur (XiktdZyczR)

    Dr. Divya Badanidiyur

    MBBS, DNB
    16 Yrs.Exp.

    4.5/5

    16 Years Experience

    location icon No. 76, HVV Plaza 15th Cross, 4th Main Rd, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560055
    Call Us
    9175-793-953
  • online dot green
    Dr. Shilpa Shrivastava (LEiOfhPy1O)

    Dr. Shilpa Shrivastava

    MBBS, MS
    16 Yrs.Exp.

    4.5/5

    16 Years Experience

    location icon Pristyn Care Clinic, Sri Ramnagar - Block C, Hyderabad
    Call Us
    6366-447-375
  • online dot green
    Dr. Vidya H  (YTiKnplaH2)

    Dr. Vidya H

    MBBS, MS-ENT
    14 Yrs.Exp.

    4.8/5

    14 Years Experience

    location icon Insight Tower, MIG:1-167, Insight Towers, Opp: Prime Hospital 4th Floor, Rd Number 1, Kukatpally Housing Board Colony, Hyderabad, Telangana 500072
    Call Us
    6366-447-375
  • online dot green
    Dr. Bency Benjamin (gAuutHXpd7)

    Dr. Bency Benjamin

    MBBS, MS-ENT
    13 Yrs.Exp.

    4.9/5

    13 Years Experience

    location icon Golden Hawk Building, 1-8-208, PG Road, Jogani, Ramgopalpet, Hyderabad, Telangana 500003
    Call Us
    6366-447-375

What are Lingual Tonsils?

Lingual tonsils are part of your body’s immune system, located at the base of your tongue. They are lymphatic tissue that plays a crucial role in defending against infections by producing antibodies and activating immune responses when exposed to pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. These small bumps on your lingual tonsils serve a significant function in maintaining your overall health.

However, when inflamed, this condition is known as lingual tonsillitis. It can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as a sore throat and difficulty swallowing. If not properly managed, it can lead to complications like airway obstruction or abscess formation.

In India, more awareness about this condition is needed as it often goes undiagnosed due to the lack of knowledge about its symptoms and causes. The good news is that with proper medical attention and care, diagnosis and treatment of this condition can be straightforward.

cost calculator

Tonsillitis Surgery Cost Calculator

Fill details to get actual cost

i
i
i

To confirm your details, please enter OTP sent to you on *

i

What causes Lingual Tonsil Infections?

The causes for inflammation of lingual tonsils or lingual tonsillitis can be varied:

  • Viral Infections: Many lingual tonsillitis cases stem from viral infections like those caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, influenza virus, or herpes simplex virus.
  • Bacterial Infections: Bacteria such as Group A Streptococcus, the cause of strep throat, can also lead to tonsillitis.
  • Fungal Infections: Although less common, fungi can infect and inflame the lingual tonsils.
  • Exposure to Allergens and Irritants: Persistent exposure to allergens like dust or pollen can cause inflammation, making the lingual tonsils more prone to infection.
  • Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: This stomach acid reflux condition can irritate and inflame the lingual tonsils.
  • Obesity: Increased body weight is associated with an enlargement of the lingual tonsils, which may lead to complications such as obstructive sleep apnea.
  • Previous Tonsillectomy: In individuals who have had their palatine tonsils removed, the lingual tonsils may hypertrophy or enlarge in a compensatory manner.

Are you going through any of these symptoms?

Types of Lingual Tonsils

There are two primary forms of tonsillitis affecting the lingual tonsils, which are tiny mounds of tissue situated at the base of our tongue. These include:

  • Acute Lingual Tonsillitis: This form is characterised by a sudden onset, typically triggered by viral or bacterial infections. The symptoms usually resolve within a week.
  • Chronic Lingual Tonsillitis: This variant persists for a longer duration and can result from recurrent infections or continuing irritation. The persistent nature of this issue often leads to complications, making it a bit harder to treat.

Symptoms of Lingual Tonsils

If you are suffering from lingual tonsillitis, you might experience some or all of the following symptoms:

  • Sore Throat: Often severe, causing pain while swallowing. This is the most common symptom.
  • Swollen Tonsils: The lingual tonsils may appear enlarged or like bumps, creating a sensation of a lump in your throat.
  • Difficulty Swallowing: The inflammation and swelling can make it awkward and painful to swallow.
  • Bad Breath: Particularly evident when the tonsillitis is due to bacterial infections.
  • Ear Pain: Sometimes, pain from throat inflammation can be felt in your ears, a phenomenon known as referred pain.
  • Swollen Lymph Nodes: Noticeable during a physical examination by a doctor.

In severe cases, complications like obstructive sleep apnea or airway obstruction due to significant swelling might occur.

Pristyn Care’s Free Post-Operative Care

Diet & Lifestyle Consultation

Post-Surgery Follow-Up

Free Cab Facility

24*7 Patient Support

Diagnosis and Evaluation of Lingual Tonsils

The diagnosis of lingual tonsillitis generally involves a multi-step process:

  • Firstly, doctors conduct a thorough physical examination of the throat and neck to assess for swelling and tenderness.
  • Secondly, a laryngoscopy is performed. A special tool is utilised to visualise the lingual tonsils directly, as these are not easily seen during a standard examination.
  • Finally, to test for bacterial infections, especially Group A Streptococcus which can cause strep throat, a throat swab may be taken. Often, blood tests are also done to check for signs of infection.

How Lingual Tonsils can be treated?

The treatment for lingual tonsillitis primarily depends on the underlying cause:

  • In case of Viral Infections, they are generally managed with supportive care. This includes rest, hydration and taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to alleviate pain and fever.
  • If you have Bacterial Infections, antibiotics are required for effective treatment. It’s critical to complete the full course as prescribed by the doctor to ensure complete recovery.
  • In instances where there are Chronic Cases or Recurrent Infections, surgical removal of the lingual tonsils might be considered. Such operations have a high success rate.

However, they may come with potential complications, like all surgeries. They are usually recommended only if infections are frequent or cause significant complications.

When is Lingual Tonsils considered serious?

Lingual tonsillitis, an inflammation of the lingual tonsils, is usually a common and manageable condition. However, there are certain circumstances under which it can become serious:

  • Abscess formation: A lingual tonsil abscess is a potentially life-threatening situation that can result from untreated or severe lingual tonsillitis. You may experience severe throat pain, troubles with swallowing, and indications of systematic infection like fever and rapid heart rate (tachycardia).
  • Airway compromise: Significant swelling of the lingual tonsils could obstruct your airway, leading to respiratory distress. Immediate medical intervention is required to secure the airway.
  • Sepsis: In severe instances, sepsis can occur when the body has a life-threatening response to an infection.
  • Chronic infections: Recurrent or persistent lingual tonsillitis can lead to complications such as obstructive sleep apnea, particularly in children or adults with predisposing factors such as obesity.

Prevention of Lingual Tonsils

While it’s not possible to entirely prevent lingual tonsillitis, there are steps you can take to reduce your risks. These include maintaining good hygiene habits, avoiding close contact with individuals who are ill and ensuring you are up-to-date with vaccinations. If you notice signs of frequent or recurring throat infections, you should consult your family physician for an evaluation.

Myths & Facts about Lingual Tonsils

Lingual tonsillitis often comes with several misconceptions:

  • Myth: Only children get lingual tonsillitis.
  • Fact: While it is more common in children, adults can also be affected.
  • Myth: Lingual tonsillitis is always a bacterial infection.
  • Fact: Most cases are viral in origin, though bacterial infections like strep throat could cause it.
  • Myth: Surgery is always required for lingual tonsillitis.

Fact: Many instances can be managed with rest, hydration, and antibiotics.

When to consult a Doctor for Lingual Tonsils?

If you notice symptoms like severe throat pain, difficulty in breathing or swallowing, high fever, or confusion, it’s time to consult a doctor. You should ideally visit an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) specialist as they can properly evaluate your condition and suggest appropriate treatment.

Questions to ask your Doctor about Lingual Tonsils

When consulting your doctor about lingual tonsillitis, consider asking these questions:

  • What could be causing my lingual tonsils?
  • Are my symptoms severe enough to require medical treatment?
  • What treatment options are available for lingual tonsillitis?
  • Could this condition lead to complications?
  • How can I prevent the recurrence of lingual tonsillitis?
  • Would surgery be required for my condition?
  • What lifestyle changes can I make to manage this condition better?
  • Is there a need for any tests or investigations?

FAQs

What are the lingual tonsils functions?

The lingual tonsils are a part of your body’s defence system. Situated at the base of your tongue, these small, rounded masses of tissue help prevent harmful bacteria and viruses from entering your respiratory tract or digestive system. By producing antibodies, they support your immune response and form a protective barrier to safeguard your body from potential infections.

What causes bumps on the lingual tonsils?

Lingual tonsils bumps can be caused by various factors. Most commonly, they result from an infection, such as a viral or bacterial infection like tonsillitis. Other possible causes include allergies, irritation from smoking or alcohol consumption, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) where stomach acid backs up into the throat.

What are the common symptoms of lingual tonsil issues?

Issues with your lingual tonsils can trigger various symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, a persistent sore throat, feeling a lump in the back of your throat, and changes in your voice. Other indicators include bad breath, ear pain and discomfort while speaking.

How is an issue with the lingual tonsils diagnosed?

Diagnosis of lingual tonsil issues typically necessitates a thorough physical examination by your doctor. This may be supported by additional tests like a throat swab to identify infections, or imaging studies like a CT scan or MRI for a more detailed view. In some cases, an endoscopy might be performed to get a closer look at your throat.

What treatments are available for bumps on the lingual tonsils?

The treatment for bumps on the lingual tonsils largely depends on their cause. If they are due to an infection, antibiotics or antivirals might be prescribed by your doctor. For GERD-related bumps, lifestyle modifications and medication to reduce stomach acid may be suggested. In severe cases where bumps cause discomfort or breathing difficulties, surgery might be considered.

What is the success rate of treatment for bumps on the lingual tonsils?

The success rate for treating bumps on the lingual tonsils is generally high. Most people find relief with appropriate medication and lifestyle changes. In cases where surgery is required, advancements in medical technology have led to improved outcomes and reduced complications.

Are there any complications associated with the treatment of bumps on lingual tonsils?

Complications associated with the treatment of bumps on the lingual tonsils are rare, but possible. When surgery is involved, potential risks include infection, bleeding, or reactions to anaesthesia. It’s crucial to discuss these potential risks with your doctor before any medical procedure.

What preventive measures can be taken to avoid issues with the lingual tonsils?

Preventing issues with your lingual tonsils involves maintaining overall good health and hygiene habits. This includes regular hand washing to avoid infections, maintaining a balanced diet for a strong immune system, avoiding smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol, and treating any underlying health conditions like GERD that may impact your tonsils. Regular check-ups with your doctor can also help in early detection and treatment of any potential issues.

View more questions downArrow
green tick with shield icon
Medically Reviewed By
doctor image
Dr. Divya Badanidiyur
16 Years Experience Overall
Last Updated : March 5, 2025

Our Patient Love Us

  • JY

    Jyoti

    5/5

    Very Good Doctor. He is very caring and soft spoken.

    City : DELHI
  • MO

    Mona

    5/5

    Pristyn care is very wonderful app I am so happy the treatment

    City : DELHI
  • TH

    Tharun Hemraj Bangera

    5/5

    I had an amazing experience with Pristyn Care for my tonsils removal surgery. Their focus on customer service is what won my heart Definitely recommend Pristyn Care to all my close ones.

    City : MUMBAI
  • DK

    Dinesh K Dubey

    5/5

    Highly impressed by the warmth, human touch, and professionalism of the attending expert, Dr. Siddhartha Vashisth. He explained the problem in detail and recommend certain tests to get his own diagnosis reconfirmed! Glad to know such an amazing doc!

    City : GURGAON
  • SN

    Sangita Narwal

    4/5

    Good service and experienced doctors. My tonsillitis surgery went well, and Pristyn Care assisted me at every step.

    City : GURGAON