Shanette, recovery takes forever in the eyes of the OC patient and the caregiver. In reality most patients are doing much better about 6-8 months post rads. The sense of taste usually begins to return at about 6-10 weeks post rads. But a complete recovery can take a full 2 years. His body has been cut, poisoned and burned and weakened so it will take a long time to get over that and to rebuild itself. Using high protein whey powder added to drinks can help to speed up the heeling process. Keep up at least 2500 calories and 48 oz of water for at least the first year after rads. Maybe he is a little dehydrated and thats what is making the tongue appear worse with the deep cracks. You can always ask to have him hydrated by calling the doc for a prescription too.

Ask the doc for a prescription for magic mouthwash. Im sure you can call that in and the doc can call it into the pharmacy. It will help your father by numbing his mouth for a few minutes so he is able to eat easier.


Your father has been able to keep swallowing so he is ahead of the game. Recovery can be very frustrating. Its one step forward and 2 back for the first couple months. One day foods will begin to taste ok then the same food the next day tastes like salted burnt charcoal. In time this will all be a distant memory.

Hang in there, the worst is over. Its all downhill from here.