| Function |
The command center of the nervous system, responsible for processing sensory information, controlling motor functions, regulating homeostasis, and generating consciousness, thought, memory, emotion, and language. |
The longest cranial nerve (CN X), providing parasympathetic innervation to most thoracic and abdominal viscera. Controls heart rate, peristalsis, sweating, speech, and various reflex actions including coughing, swallowing, and the … |
| Clinical Significance |
Stroke (cerebrovascular accident) is a leading cause of disability. Traumatic brain injury ranges from concussion to severe diffuse axonal injury. Neurodegenerative diseases include Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS. |
Vagus nerve stimulation is used to treat drug-resistant epilepsy and depression. Vagal tone affects heart rate variability. Vagotomy was historically used to treat peptic ulcers. Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury during … |