What is the olfactory nerve?

olfactory nerve is a collection of nerve roots that extends from olfactory bulb to olfactory epithelium, an area of ​​nose, which truly captures the smell. Nerve cells in this part of the nose are chemosensitive and respond to chemical signals that are converted into electrical pulses that are transmitted by olfactory nerve to olfactory bulb. As soon as these pulses reach the microregion in the olfactory bulb, which corresponds to the nerve cells that have been stimulated, the signals are transmitted to different areas in the brain and the owner of the nose is allowed to perceive the scent. It is also the only cranial nerve, except for an optical nerve that has not met the brain. People have two olfactory nerves, one on each side of the face, and these nerves can be tested independently by connecting one side of the nose and exposing the patient to different odors. It helps use a strong or pungent scent for a stronger reaction.

This nerve is one of the most basic, reflects the early origin of noIch system, which is one of the oldest sensory systems in most living organisms. It is also very vulnerable to damage because it exceeds the hard protection of the skull into the softer areas of the face, which means that it can be injured due to the trauma of the face. For example, someone with a broken nose can also have a damaged olfactory nerve.

exposure to harsh chemicals, strong odors and certain types of infections can also lead to damage to olfactory nerve. Since patients can damage only one olfactory nerve at a time, they may not be aware of damage immediately, attribute the reduced sense of smell to a clogged nose, or not even notice reduced sensitivity to odors. The physician may diagnose the damage to the olfactory nerve of the patient's strong odor and monitor the patient's response.

This nerve is an important part of a larger olfactory system, a system that allows organisms to capture and perceive odors. The sensitivity of the olfactory system is largely determined by the magnitude of the olfactory epitheliumat; The larger the epithelium, the more odors the body can isolate and more precisely the body can distinguish between different odors. Although people may feel as if they have ever lived in the world of fragrances, in fact, they have relatively weak olfactory systems compared to many other animals.