Papillae refer to the little structure that looks like thread that occur on the tongue naturally. The Enlarged papillae can be of the following types:

1. Fungiform papillae: These are most often scattered on the whole tongue but more on the sides or the tip of the tongue.
2. Foliate papillae: These can be found on the sides of the tongue and are formed into two clusters, both with an extended fold.
3. Filiform papillae: They are thin, elongated and resemble a v-shape. These help in identifying the sour taste and also are the abrasive cover for the tongue.
4. Circumvallate papillae: They are found on the back of the tongue and occur in a V shape tapering towards the throat. These help in detecting the bitter tastes. Most of the individuals will have just10 to 14 of these papillae.

Causes of Enlarged Papillae

In most of the causes the enlarged papillae do not indicate anything severe and are harmless. Some causes are:

1. Transient lingual papillitis or lie bumps: This is an inflammatory disorder that hams typically the fungiform papillae on the dorsal area of the tongue. The enlarged papillae in this case are found with little white or red bumps. The patients can also feel tingling or burning sensations on their tongue.
2. Excessive smoking: People who smoke excessively can experience tongue irritation which further causes the enlargement of tongue papillae.
3. Irritation of the tongue: This can happen if one consumes very hot food that can burn the papillae. Even the consumption of too salty or spicy food or acidic food can cause enlarged papillae. Sometimes accidently biting the tongue or a trauma can also injure it increasing the risk of tongue irritation and infection, further causing enlarged papillae.
4. It can also occur due to oral especially if the sore does not go away in two weeks.
5. It might sound unrelated but stress and anxiety can also be a potential cause of having enlarged papillae. People with stress are more vulnerable to many health problems. The lack of balance in the mental health of a person will have many side effects on the different parts in body. It also affects the production of hormones and enzyme release in body.

Other causes

• Sudden exposure to harmful chemicals, insecticides, alcohol, or other toxins.
• In some cases the vitamin or mineral deficiencies like B complex.
• Allergic reactions to foods like sauces or new cuisines.

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Treatment for enlarged papillae

Usually the Transient lingual papillitis that are related to enlarged papillae go away on their own without any proper treatment. The pain or discomfort can however be coped up with at home with simple remedies like applying ice cubes or cold compresses on the tongue. Drinking ice cold water and other fresh liquids can also help. Gargling with a salt solution and lukewarm water is also another solution. It is also equally important to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Too much junk food and food and drinks with artificial flavors and coloring should also be avoided. Your diet should be full of fresh vegetables and fruits.

Often doctors prescribe Oral medicines and topical creams to treat problems related to the enlarged papillae. Some other related infections like Thrush infections can be taken care of with home remedies such as by consuming yogurt or applying it on the infected areas of the tongue. In cases of Nutritional deficits taking Vitamin B12 and iron can be helpful. Supplements and changes in the diet are also important.

Some preventive measures include:

1. Adopting a good oral hygiene that includes regular brushing of the teeth and tongue flossing with products that are low in chemical content. It is also recommended to see your dentist once a month.
2. Excessive smoking and consumption of alcohol should also be controlled to prevent tongue infections.
3. The dentures if any should be fitted correctly.
4. Using tea tree oil at regular intervals can also help preventing the mouth infections.
5. One should also avoid eating too much salty, spicy, acidic, or hot food.
6. Intake of dairy products that are low in fat content is also a helpful preventive measure.