Question
Damage to which of the following cranial nerves might resuit in deal
vagus nerve
facial nerve
glossopharyngeal nerve
trigeminal nerve
vagus nerve
facial nerve
glossopharyngeal nerve
trigeminal nerve
Ask by Graham Deleon. in the United States
Mar 21,2025
Upstudy AI Solution
Tutor-Verified Answer
Answer
Damage to the vagus nerve is most likely to result in impaired deglutition (swallowing).
Solution
- The process of deglutition (swallowing) involves the coordinated activity of several cranial nerves.
- The vagus nerve (
) plays a critical role in the pharyngeal and laryngeal phases of swallowing by innervating muscles that control the movement of the pharynx and larynx. - Damage to the vagus nerve can lead to difficulties in swallowing (dysphagia), as well as problems with voice and airway protection.
- In contrast, although the glossopharyngeal nerve (
) has a role in swallowing by providing sensory input and innervating the stylopharyngeus muscle, the most prominent clinical deficits leading to deglutition problems are typically seen with vagal damage. - The facial nerve (
) primarily controls muscles of facial expression and taste for the anterior two‐thirds of the tongue, and the trigeminal nerve ( ) primarily governs the muscles of mastication and facial sensation; neither is as directly involved in the coordinated, pharyngeal aspects of swallowing.
Thus, damage to the vagus nerve is most likely to result in impaired deglutition.
Answered by UpStudy AI and reviewed by a Professional Tutor
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Simplify this solution The Deep Dive
Damage to the vagus nerve can lead to a variety of critical complications, including difficulty in swallowing and speaking, impairment of heart rate regulation, and potential issues in digestion. This cranial nerve has a wide reach, innervating numerous organs and playing essential roles in autonomic functions.
On the other hand, the facial nerve damage can result in facial paralysis or weakness, affecting expressions like smiling or closing the eyes. This nerve is not only responsible for motor functions but also carries sensory information from the taste buds, making its impact on communication and eating quite significant!
