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Cranial nerves

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There are 12 pairs of cranial nerves. All but one pair of them go from the brain to the head and neck. The other pair go to the chest and abdomen. Cranial nerves carry sensation from the face, head, and neck to the brain. They also carry information to and from the organs to the brain. They control the muscles in the face and throat. They let you see, hear, smell, and taste. And they connect the balance center of the inner ear to the brain.

The cranial nerves also control movement of the eyes and tongue and regulate certain body functions.

Current as of: December 20, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: December 20, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.