Glossopharyngeal Nerve (Noun)
Meaning
Sensory nerve to the pharynx and back of the tongue; motor fibers innervate muscles that elevate the pharynx and larynx; includes parasympathetic fibers to the otic ganglion.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The glossopharyngeal nerve is primarily responsible for conveying sensory information from the back of the tongue and pharynx to the brain.
- Injury to the glossopharyngeal nerve can result in difficulties with swallowing due to impaired motor control of pharyngeal muscles.
- The glossopharyngeal nerve plays a critical role in regulating the movement of the larynx during the swallowing process.
- In addition to its motor functions, the glossopharyngeal nerve provides parasympathetic innervation to the otic ganglion, influencing salivary gland secretions.
- Damage to the glossopharyngeal nerve may result in diminished sensation in the pharyngeal region and the posterior one-third of the tongue.