Hairy Tongue?

Originally I posted this in an STD forum, but I believe (hope) it may be better suited here.

A month ago I brushed my tongue for the 1st time. A day or so later I noticed what looked like some bumps in the middle of my tongue. Concerned, I've bought a tounge brush and have been brushing once to five times a week.Now it seems that the bumps look more elongated, are harder, and theres more of them. They are towards the back of my tongue. Now I've also seen a few random longer papilliae on the back on either side towards the back. I must have like total 20 or so of these things, varying from small and short to larger and thicker. The more I brush, the more sensitive the area becomes. Also it seems as though there is a red "root" through the middle of them. I've been to THREE walk in clinics and 2 dentists, all have said that its not hairy tongue, but what in gods name else could it be? Needless to say, when one looks up the causes of "hairy tongue" theres some pretty scary results.

Any help would be appreciated

[StratRebel]

The bumps you notice are called papillae.  There are 4 different types, and everyone has them all.  Some of them carry taste buds.  The reason you are seeing them more is because they do become harder and appear clearer when healthy (just like your gums).  If you are becoming sensitive, you might be brushing too hard...remember, you should brush your tongue, not scrub it.

[pistolizer29]

Really. Thats something neither my dentist nor doctor said. They basically blew me off and told me to relax and have a beer - literally. I was just having a hard time finding something other than hairy tongue to self diagnose myself with... I sort of think they may be getting larger and inflamed due to excessive scrubbing and picking at it with my nails - gross I know but I've been obsessed lately!

Thanks again!