Cranial Nerve Flashcard: Key Concepts

Front

What are cranial nerves?

Back

Cranial nerves are a set of twelve paired nerves that originate in the brain and primarily serve the head and neck regions.

Front

How many cranial nerves are there?

Back

There are twelve cranial nerves, numbered I through XII.

Front

What is the function of CN I?

Back

CN I, or the Olfactory nerve, is responsible for the sense of smell.

Front

What is the function of CN II?

Back

CN II, or the Optic nerve, is responsible for vision.

Front

What is the function of CN III?

Back

CN III, or the Oculomotor nerve, controls most of the eye's movements, including constriction of the pupil.

Front

What is the function of CN VII?

Back

CN VII, or the Facial nerve, is responsible for facial expressions and taste sensations from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue.

Front

What is the function of CN X?

Back

CN X, or the Vagus nerve, regulates heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate.

Front

What is Bell's Palsy?

Back

Bell's Palsy is a condition that causes sudden, temporary weakness in the facial muscles, often affecting one side of the face.

Front

What is the difference between Central 7 and Bell's Palsy?

Back

Central 7 results in paralysis of one side of the lower face, while Bell’s Palsy results in ipsilateral, whole side paralysis.

Front

Which cranial nerve is responsible for hearing and balance?

Back

CN VIII, or the Vestibulocochlear nerve, is responsible for hearing and balance.