How do you assess cranial nerves IX and X?
Check hearing by rubbing your fingers together by each ear. Cranial nerves IX and X, which innervate the tongue and throat (pharynx and larynx), are checked together. Assess the sense of taste on the back of the tongue. Observe the patient’s ability to swallow by noting how he handles secretions.
What is the major function of cranial nerve X?
Cranial Nerves
| Number | Name | Function |
|---|---|---|
| X | Vagus Nerve | Sensory, motor and autonomic functions of viscera (glands, digestion, heart rate) |
| XI | Spinal Accessory Nerve | Controls muscles used in head movement. |
| XII | Hypoglossal Nerve | Controls muscles of tongue |
What does cranial nerve X control?
Anatomical terms of neuroanatomy The vagus nerve, historically cited as the pneumogastric nerve, is the tenth cranial nerve or CN X, and interfaces with the parasympathetic control of the heart, lungs, and digestive tract.
How do you test for cranial nerve IX?
Glossopharyngeal Nerve (IX) The glossopharyngeal nerve provides sensory supply to the palate. It can be tested with the gag reflex by touching the pharynx with a tongue depressor or by touching the arches of the pharynx.
How is the Trochlear nerve tested?
The trochlear nerve is examined in conjunction with the oculomotor and abducens nerves by testing the movements of the eye. The patient is asked to follow a point (commonly the tip of a pen) with their eyes without moving their head.
How do you test for vagus nerve?
Vagus nerve testing To test the vagus nerve, a doctor may check the gag reflex . During this part of the examination, the doctor may use a soft cotton swab to tickle the back of the throat on both sides. This should cause the person to gag.
How do you test the Glossopharyngeal nerve?
The glossopharyngeal nerve provides sensory supply to the palate. It can be tested with the gag reflex by touching the pharynx with a tongue depressor or by touching the arches of the pharynx.
How do you assess the hypoglossal nerve?
The 12th (hypoglossal) cranial nerve is evaluated by asking the patient to extend the tongue and inspecting it for atrophy, fasciculations, and weakness (deviation is toward the side of a lesion).
How cranial nerves are tested?
Light touch is tested in each of the three divisions of the trigeminal nerve and on each side of the face using a cotton wisp or tissue paper. The ophthalmic division is tested by touching the forehead, the maxillary division is tested by touching the cheeks, and the mandibular division is tested by touching the chin.