The internal laryngeal nerve controls the epiglottis.
Internal Laryngeal Nerve and the Epiglottis
The internal laryngeal nerve plays a vital role in the sensory and autonomic innervation of the larynx, specifically the area superior to the glottis. A crucial aspect of its function relates directly to the epiglottis:
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Sensory Innervation: The internal laryngeal nerve provides general sensory innervation to the superior portion of the laryngeal cavity, and importantly, including the epiglottis. This means it's responsible for transmitting sensations from the epiglottis, such as touch, temperature, and pain.
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Visceral Afferents and Taste: Furthermore, visceral afferents traveling via the internal laryngeal nerve assist in taste sensation from the epiglottis.
Summary
| Nerve | Function | Region Innervated (Relevant to Epiglottis) |
|---|---|---|
| Internal Laryngeal | Sensory, autonomic, and taste (visceral afferents) | Epiglottis and superior portion of the laryngeal cavity |
In short, the internal laryngeal nerve is critical for both sensory and autonomic functions of the epiglottis, including taste.
