Glossopharyngeal Nerves (IX)

"Glossopharyngeal nerves" is another tongue-twisting term and, perhaps, in this case, rightfully so. These are the ninth pair of cranial nerves (numbered Roman numeral "IX") and are associated with the tongue and pharynx. They are mixed nerves that are primarily sensory. The fibers carry impulses from the lining of the pharynx, tonsils and back one-third of the tongue to the brain. Fibers in the motor components aid in swallowing. Other branches are part of the involuntary nervous system and conduct impulses which are used in regulating the blood pressure while others lead to the salivary gland in front of the ear and can stimulate it to secrete saliva.