what are are the 3 functions of CN VII (facial)?
facial expression (somatic motor)parasympathetic glands of head (visceral motor)taste of anterior 2/3 tongue (special sensory)
Cranial Nerve VII, also known as the Facial Nerve, has several functions, but the three primary functions of CN VII are:
1. Motor Function: CN VII provides motor innervation to the muscles of facial expression. These muscles allow us to show emotions, smile, frown, and speak. By activating these muscles, CN VII allows us to display our feelings and interact with others.
2. Sensory Function: CN VII carries sensory information from the taste buds located on the front two-thirds of the tongue to the brain. Damage to this nerve can result in a loss of taste sensation in this region of the tongue.
3. Parasympathetic Function: CN VII provides parasympathetic innervation to the lacrimal gland, which produces tears, and the submandibular and sublingual salivary glands, which produce saliva. This helps to keep our eyes moist and our mouth lubricated, and it aids in digestion and speech.
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