Kraniaalnärv

Kraniaalnärv is the Swedish term for cranial nerve. Cranial nerves are pairs of nerves that emerge directly from the brain, rather than the spinal cord, and are responsible for a variety of sensory and motor functions, primarily in the head and neck. There are twelve pairs of cranial nerves, numbered with Roman numerals from I to XII according to their anatomical location and order of emergence from the brain.

These nerves serve diverse roles. For example, the olfactory nerve (I) is responsible for the sense of smell, while the optic nerve (II) transmits visual information. The oculomotor nerve (III), trochlear nerve (IV), and abducens nerve (VI) control eye movements. The trigeminal nerve (V) provides sensation to the face and controls chewing muscles. The facial nerve (VII) is involved in facial expressions, taste, and tear production. The vestibulocochlear nerve (VIII) handles hearing and balance. The glossopharyngeal nerve (IX) is associated with taste, swallowing, and salivation. The vagus nerve (X) has a wide range of functions, including heart rate, digestion, and sensation from the pharynx and larynx. The accessory nerve (XI) controls muscles in the neck and shoulders, and the hypoglossal nerve (XII) governs tongue movements.

Disruptions to cranial nerves can result from various conditions such as trauma, tumors, infections, or degenerative diseases, leading to symptoms like facial paralysis, vision problems, hearing loss, or difficulties with swallowing. Diagnosis often involves neurological examinations, imaging studies, and specific functional tests. Treatment depends on the underlying cause.