5. Changes in Taste
The pressure exerted on the seventh inter-cranial nerve can spread to other areas of the face, affecting other functions such as taste at the tip of the tongue. People living with Bell’s Palsy occasionally report changes in taste, with some stating they now experience revulsion to foods they previously enjoyed, while others claim a taste for foods they disliked. Foods that used to taste sweet, now taste bland, and vice versa.
Individuals suffering from Bell’s Palsy also report changes to the mouthfeel of certain foods. For example; eating soft foods may now feel rough and dry. The tongue is sensitive to different tastes – salty, sour, sweet, or bitter. Medical professionals think that Bell’s Palsy interrupts the chemical signals between the tongue and the brain, confusing tastes, smells, and textures of food.
As Bell’s Palsy subsides, the changes in taste should revert to providing the individual with their previous experience. However, in some rare cases, the changes can be permanent.