First Bite Syndrome

First bite syndrome is a potential side effect of a parotidectomy that causes pain in the parotid gland or jaw area when a patient takes a first bite of food.

It typically occurs when patients have tumors removed from the lower part of the parotid gland (deep lobe). 

Symptoms of First Bite Syndrome

Patients generally feel the sudden onset of an acute or sharp pain sensation after eating certain foods (usually sour or spicy food). The pain usually subsides a few seconds after the patient starts chewing the food.

Treatment of First Bite Syndrome

The symptoms can diminish or resolve over time for some patients. If the problem persists, it is primarily treated with Botox injections.