Is the vagus nerve central or peripheral?

The majority (∼80%) of fibers contained within the vagus are afferent (sensory) in nature (13, 42). Thus the vagus nerve is an important pathway that carries sensory information from visceral organs, including the heart, to the central nervous system.

What does stimulating the vagus nerve do?

In vagus nerve stimulation, an implanted pulse generator and lead wire stimulate the vagus nerve, which leads to stabilization of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. About one-third of people with epilepsy don’t fully respond to anti-seizure drugs.

Is the vagus nerve afferent or efferent?

The vagus nerve (cranial nerve [CN] X) is the longest cranial nerve in the body, containing both motor and sensory functions in both the afferent and efferent regards.

Where is the vagus nerve located in the body?

The vagus nerve (also known as the 10th cranial nerve or CN X) is a very long nerve that originates in the brain stem and extends down through the neck and into the chest and abdomen. It carries both motor and sensory information, and it supplies innervation to the heart, major blood vessels, airways, lungs, esophagus, stomach, and intestines. 1 

Is the vagus nerve the longest cranial nerve?

This is a very appropriate name, as the vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve. It runs all the way from the brain stem to part of the colon. The sensory functions of the vagus nerve are divided into two components: Somatic components.

What happens when vagus nerve is over stimulated?

Remember, the vagus nerve stimulates certain muscles in the heart that help to slow heart rate. When it overreacts, it can cause a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, resulting in fainting. This is known as vasovagal syncope. Vagus nerve stimulation involves placing a device in the body that uses electrical impulses to simulate the nerve.

How can you tell if your vagus nerve is damaged?

The pain you feel is flat and vague, not constant and sharp like someone is stabbing you. As mentioned at the beginning, the vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve, and it passes through multiple vital organs. When the nerve is damaged, these organs cannot receive the signals and information your body is sending.