Allan,
I am a bit behind you, just 2 month post rad... and I have been concerned about some of the same stuff.
Here is what I collected (with thanks to Gary) (search for: Topic: Loss of taste, permanent??)

Taste can take up to a year to recover, same with glands. To be sure the sequence and timing will also depend on the amount of radiation that particular gland (there are a few) or bud received. The increased activity will burn up more calories, that together with food that does not taste right or taste at all is a problem. You can always use boost or carnation instant breakfast to augment.

You just need to give it time and be patient. (and just so that you know, I am not a patient person myself).

Markus


Partial glossectomy (25%) anterior tongue. 4/6/07/. IMRT start @5/24/07 (3x) Erbitux start/end@ 5/24/07. IMRT wider field (30x) start 6/5/07. Weekly cisplatin (2x30mg/m2), then weekly carbo- (5x180mg/m2). End of Tx 19 July 07.