How Do You Spell HYPOGLOSSAL NERVE?

1. The hypoglossal nerve is a cranial nerve that is responsible for the motor control of the muscles involved in the movement and coordination of the tongue. It is the twelfth cranial nerve and arises from the medulla oblongata, the lowermost part of the brainstem.

   The hypoglossal nerve courses downward through the neck region, passing through the hypoglossal canal, a small bony canal in the occipital bone located just below the skull base. Once it exits the skull, the nerve supplies motor innervation to the muscles of the tongue on both sides.

   The primary function of the hypoglossal nerve is to control the movements of the tongue, enabling a variety of actions such as speech, swallowing, chewing, and voluntary tongue movements. It provides the necessary communication between the brain and the muscles of the tongue, allowing precise and coordinated movements.

   Any damage or dysfunction to the hypoglossal nerve can result in a condition called hypoglossal nerve palsy, leading to muscle weakness or paralysis of the tongue on the affected side. This can cause difficulties in speaking, swallowing, and chewing, impacting overall oral and respiratory functions.

   In conclusion, the hypoglossal nerve is a crucial cranial nerve involved in the motor control of the tongue, playing a vital role in various essential functions such as speech and swallowing.

2. The twelfth (formerly the ninth) cranial nerve; see under nervus.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for HYPOGLOSSAL NERVE

The word "hypoglossal" is derived from the Greek roots "hypo-" meaning "below" or "under", and "glossa" meaning "tongue". The term "hypoglossal nerve" refers to the 12th cranial nerve, which supplies motor innervation to the muscles of the tongue. The name indicates that the nerve is located below or underneath the tongue.