The only ball python that I've ever owned that would stick it's tongue out for extended periods of time was an egg bound female. She was in a lot of discomfort and very lethargic.

If it's a new animal and you haven't been to a vet yet, I'd recommend it. If nothing more than to just get to know your vet and have him/her give an overall health assesment of your snake. After that, annual visits to a vet for your ball python is actually a very good practice to get in the habit of.

There isn't a person on the planet that can accurately diagnose a potentially sick snake over the internet. It's all "best guess". That's why having a local vet that can see your snake in person is a valuable resource.

Of course, this is all just my opinion for whatever it's worth.

Good luck.

-adam