S04: Injury of cranial nerves

S04.8: Injury of other cranial nerves

Various nerves run from the brain to the sensory organs in the head, and to organs in the body. These nerves are called cranial nerves. These nerves are important in seeing, tasting or hearing, for example. But the cranial nerves also control important functions in the body, such as in the lungs and heart.

You may have injured your olfactory nerve. Your sense of smell and taste would then be less effective. You might also have injured the nerve that controls your tongue’s movements. As a result, you may no longer be able to move your tongue properly. You may also have injured the nerve that is important for swallowing and talking. You may then find it hard to swallow or talk. You may also have injured the nerve which is responsible for key organs. You might then have digestive problems or your heart might not beat with the usual rhythm.