Which of the following is the most serious consequence of a damaged or anesthetized glossopharyngeal nerve? Impaired
A)secretion of salivary glands and dry mouth.
B)corneal reflex and corneal scarring.
C)gag reflex and aspiration of food and water into the respiratory passages.
D)swallowing causing starvation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The glossopharyngeal nerve is responsible for the gag reflex, which prevents food and water from entering the respiratory passages. If this nerve is damaged or anesthetized, the gag reflex will be impaired, increasing the risk of aspiration and pneumonia. This can be a serious consequence of glossopharyngeal nerve damage. Options A, B, and D may also occur with glossopharyngeal nerve damage, but are not as immediately life-threatening as aspiration pneumonia.

Which of the Following Is the Most Serious Consequence of a Damaged