Question

Bell's Palsy affects which cranial nerve?

1) Facial nerve (cranial nerve VII)
2) Optic nerve (cranial nerve II)
3) Olfactory nerve (cranial nerve I)
4) Vestibulocochlear nerve (cranial nerve VIII)

Answer 1

Bell's Palsy affects the seventh cranial nerve - the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII), which is responsible for facial expressions, taste, saliva production, and also contains preganglionic parasympathetic fibers.

Step-by-step explanation:

Bell's Palsy affects the facial nerve, which is the seventh cranial nerve (cranial nerve VII). This nerve is responsible for controlling the muscles involved in facial expressions, as well as part of the sense of taste and the production of saliva. When the facial nerve is compromised, as in Bell's Palsy, these functions can be affected, leading to muscle weakness or paralysis on one side of the face. Notably, the facial nerve also contains preganglionic parasympathetic fibers, which contribute to functions like salivation.