Cranial Nerves

CN I

Also known as the Olfactory nerve, CN 1 is responsible for the sense of smell.

CN II

The second cranial nerve, responsible for vision and transmitting visual information from the retina to the brain.

CN III

Also known as the Oculomotor nerve, CN III controls most of the eye's movements, including constriction of the pupil and maintaining an open eyelid.

CN IV

Also known as the Trochlear nerve, CN IV controls the superior oblique muscle, which is responsible for downward and lateral eye movement.

CN VI

Also known as the Abducens nerve, CN VI controls the lateral rectus muscle, which is responsible for outward eye movement.

CN V

Also known as the Trigeminal nerve, CN V is responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions such as biting and chewing.

CN VII

Also known as the Facial nerve, CN VII controls the muscles of facial expression and is involved in the sense of taste and the production of saliva and tears.

CN VIII

Also known as the Vestibulocochlear nerve, CN VIII is responsible for hearing and balance in the auditory system.

CN IX

Also known as the Glossopharyngeal nerve, CN IX is responsible for taste, swallowing, and the gag reflex, as well as monitoring blood pressure and oxygen levels.

CN X

Also known as the Vagus nerve, CN X controls involuntary functions of the heart, lungs, and digestive tract, and is involved in sensation from the ear and throat.

CN XI

Also known as the Accessory nerve, CN XI controls the movements of the shoulder and neck, particularly contributing to head rotation and shoulder elevation.

CN XII

Also known as the Hypoglossal nerve, CN XII controls tongue movements crucial for speech and swallowing.