A couple of years ago, i started getting blackish spots on my tongue. i went to the doctor, and he told me that it was normal. but about a year or so ago, i started getting little bumps on my tongue that resemble little pimples, and they are painful. they usually pop up on the tip of my tongue, but also often in the back on the sides. could this be cancer? i'm only 19, but i've been a heavy smoker for about five and a half years.

Hi LauraK

It is more likely to be an inflammation of the normal papillae on the tongue caused by either viral or smoking irritation. Do a search for """tongue""" under the Questions and Answers section for more information. Get back to me if you still have questions.

:soapbox: By the way, it is a great idea to use this 'sign' on your tongue as a signal to stop smoking :banghead: .

Best wishes
Vinod :coffee:

Hello Laura, I too have black spots not on my tongue but on the sides of my mouth, I was also told it was nothing. I have also had those white bumps and they do hurt. My mother always used to say that they were """lie""" bumps, for when we told a lie. Humor there. I don't know what they ever were. They never stayed for long tho, as bad as they hurt it seemed like forever.. Listen to what Doc said and follow his advice..Let us know...Vicki