What does it mean when there are white spots on both sides of the tongue accompanied by swollen lymph nodes?

White spots on the sides of the tongue accompanied by lymph node inflammation may be caused by bacterial infection in the oral cavity. It is also possible that frequent consumption of spicy and irritating foods, such as chili peppers and mustard oil, leads to excessive internal heat ("fire"). Treatment for white spots on the sides of the tongue and inflamed lymph nodes typically involves antibiotic medications, such as metronidazole tablets or amoxicillin.