Nervus Vagus is a Latin term that refers to the tenth cranial nerve in the human body. It is also known as the vagus nerve, which is essential for regulating several critical bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiration. The spelling of the term 'Nervus Vagus' is derived from the Latin language. In IPA phonetic transcription, it can be spelled as ['nɛrvəs 'veɪɡəs]. The word 'Nervus' is pronounced as 'nɛrvəs,' and 'Vagus' is pronounced as 'veɪɡəs.'
The nervus vagus, also known as the vagus nerve or cranial nerve X, is one of the twelve pairs of cranial nerves that originate in the brainstem and extend to various parts of the body. It is the longest cranial nerve and plays a crucial role in the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions.
The nervus vagus is responsible for supplying parasympathetic fibers to several organs, including the heart, lungs, and digestive system. It helps regulate heart rate, breathing, and digestion, as well as other functions such as sweating and speech. The vagus nerve carries sensory information from these organs back to the brain, providing the brain with important feedback about the body's status.
This cranial nerve has branches that innervate the larynx, pharynx, and other muscles involved in swallowing and vocalization. It also plays a part in controlling the smooth muscles of the digestive tract, ensuring proper movement and function of the gastrointestinal system.
Disorders or damage to the nervus vagus can lead to various symptoms and health issues. Dysfunction in the vagus nerve can result in conditions such as gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying), arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), or even problems with swallowing or speaking.
In summary, the nervus vagus is a vital cranial nerve that controls and regulates many essential bodily functions. Its role in the autonomic nervous system and its wide distribution throughout the body make it a key component in maintaining homeostasis and overall well-being.
Vagus nerve, pneumogastric nerve, 10th cranial nerve, arises by numerous small cords from the side of the medulla oblongata, between the glassopharyngeus above and the accessorius below; its deep connections are similar to those of the glossopharyngeus; it leaves the cranial cavity by the jugular foramen and passes down to supply the larynx, lungs, heart, esophagus, stomach, and most of the abdominal viscera; it is a mixed nerve both of sensation and of motion.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word nervus vagus comes from Latin. Nervus means nerve, while vagus translates to wandering or wandering nerve. This name was given to this particular nerve due to its extensive distribution throughout the body, as it innervates various organs and structures, including the heart, lungs, stomach, and intestines. The term vagabond nerve is sometimes used as a more literal translation of nervus vagus.