The spelling of the medical term "nervus nasalis" is based on the Latin language. In IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription, it is pronounced as 'ˈnɛrvʊs nəˈseɪlɪs'. The word "nervus" means "nerve" and "nasalis" means "of or relating to the nose." Therefore, "nervus nasalis" refers to the nerve that runs along the nose. Proper spelling of this word is crucial in the medical field, as accurate communication is vital to delivering effective treatment.
Nervus nasalis, also known as the nasal nerve, is a peripheral nerve located in the head and face region. It is a branch of the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve (CN V), which is the fifth cranial nerve. The nervus nasalis specifically arises from the nasociliary branch of the ophthalmic nerve.
The nervus nasalis innervates the nasal cavity and surrounding structures, providing sensory information to the nasal mucosa, nasal septum, and the anterior region of the nasal cavity. It carries general somatic sensory fibers, allowing for the perception of various sensations such as pain, temperature, and touch in these areas.
This nerve also plays a crucial role in the nasal reflexes, including sneezing and nasal congestion. It is responsible for transmitting signals to the brain in response to irritants, foreign bodies, or other stimuli in the nasal cavity. For example, when irritants are detected, the nervus nasalis sends signals that trigger a sneeze, helping to expel the irritant and clear the nasal passages.
Damage or dysfunction of the nervus nasalis can result in loss or alteration of sensation in the nasal region, potentially affecting the ability to perceive smells, detect irritants, or initiate nasal reflexes. A thorough understanding of the nervus nasalis is important in the field of neurology and head and neck anatomy, as it contributes to the complex sensory network in the face and plays a vital role in maintaining nasal health and function.
N. Nasociliaris.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "nervus nasalis" is derived from Latin.
- "Nervus" means "nerve" in Latin, which ultimately originates from the Proto-Indo-European root *gneh₁-, meaning "to know" or "to perceive".
- "Nasalis" comes from the Latin word "nasus", meaning "nose".
Therefore, "nervus nasalis" translates to "nasal nerve" in English.