Has anyone experienced taste coming back slowly after tongue radiation?

Many people in the oral cancer community report similar experiences with taste recovery after radiation therapy. The pattern of tasting something initially and then having it fade is something that others have shared during their recovery journey. Taste recovery can be a gradual process that varies from person to person, so connecting with others who've been through similar treatments might provide helpful insights and encouragement.

Hi Brian. I am 5 1/2 months post treatment as well for base of tongue cancer (Lingual Tonsil). I got my taste back fairly quickly but it’s still not 100%. I have noticed some change in the strength of the taste while eating. I had an appointment with my dietician this morning and she recommended taking Zinc (45-100 mg) for about 2-3 weeks. I guess our taste buds regenerate every couple of weeks and Zinc acts as a growth factor for taste bud stem cells and helps release the protein Gustin, which regulates taste receptor cells. I will give it a try to see how it helps. Sweets aren’t as sweet and some slightly spicy items are very spicy for me right now. The sweet flavor profile starts out slightly sweet but wanes fairly quickly. Hope your tastes get better.

Thank you for your input. I will try the zinc and see if it helps.

Mine is also resuming slowly. I’m 9 months post surgery. My doctor said it will never be the same