Introduction

The vagus nerve is the tenth of twelve paired cranial nerves. It carries a wide range of signals to and from the brain. The nerves are responsible for a number of autonomic reflex responses in relation to what the body is doing. Importantly the nerves help to regulate the heart beat, control muscle movement and are responsible for keeping a person breathing. The nerves also maintain the digestive tract by contracting the muscles of the stomach and intestines to help process food.

The vagus nerve splits into many branches throughout its course. Damage can lead to minor, severe or even life-threatening effects.

Overview: Understanding the Vagus nerve

• What is the vagus nerve?

• Where does it originate?

• Why is it important?

Function

• What does the vagus nerve do?

• Why is this important?

Branches

• Jugular Fossa branches 

• Thoracic Branches

• Abdominal Branches

Nerve Damage

• Nerve damage on a minor scale

• More severe nerve damage

• Suspected nerve damage: What the doctor looks for

Vagus Stimulation

• Using vagus nerve pulse generators as therapeutic options for the treatment of epilepsy and depression  

News

•  News paper articles relating to the vagus nerve

FAQ's

• Answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding the vagus nerve

Glossary

• Key words and definitions