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Where Is the Vagus Nerve and What Does It Do? 

Where Is the Vagus Nerve and What Does It Do?

Did you know that your vagus nerve makes it possible for your gut to talk to your brain?

Nerves in the human body make it possible to do things such as breath, walk, and swallow liquids. As one of the most important nerves in the human body, the vagus nerve influences how and when you respond to stress. 

Despite its importance, many people continue to ask the question “where is the vagus nerve and what does it do?”. To help you understand more about this fascinating nerve, we’ve written a guide. Keep reading and we’ll tell you what’s important to know. 

The Basics of What Is the Vagus Nerve

The human body has twelve cranial nerves. Each of these nerves exists in pairs. Their purpose is to connect the brain with different parts of the human body, such as the stomach, feet, and neck. 

Some nerves send sensory details to the brain such as odors, sights, and sounds. These are called sensory functions. 

There are nerves whose job is to control how muscles move. These are called motor functions. 

Some nerves only have sensory functions and others only have motor functions. The vagus has sensory and motor functions. 

The Vagus Nerve Explained: What It Does

This fascinating nerve helps internal organs function correctly. It regulates things like your digestion, heart rate, breathing, and your reflexes. It is part of the autonomic nervous system. 

It is also an important part of what experts refer to as the “brain-gut axis.” Scientists are currently studying how this axis relates to health problems like obesity and depression. 

More and more people are choosing to use helpful tools for improving the function of the vagus nerve such as The Vagus Stimulator. If you have one and still don’t know how to use it, click for some tips

Sensory and Motor Functions of the Vagus Nerve

The vagus nerve’s sensory operations consist of somatic and visceral components. Somatic sensory components are sensations that you can feel on your skin and in your muscles. Visceral sensory components are sensations that you can feel inside of your body. 

The vagus nerve’s motor functions include stimulating muscles in the mouth and throat. It also influences muscles in the heart in order to assure that you have a low resting heart rate. 

Problems that Can Develop with the Vagus Nerve

There are many different symptoms that you might have if your vagus nerve is damaged. Some people have trouble speaking, while others feel depressed or anxious

One of the best ways to improve the functioning of your vagus nerve is by stimulating it. There are various devices you can purchase which can do this. 

Where Is the Vagus Nerve and What Does It Do: A Very Important Nerve

If you’ve been asking yourself the question “where is the vagus nerve and what does it do?”, remember that this nerve plays many important roles. Unlike other nerves in the human body, the vagus nerve has both motor and sensory functions. 

If you want to learn more about nerves in the human body, be sure to check out the Health section of our blog. 

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