How can the vagus nerve be tested?

The vagus nerve can be tested using various methods, but two commonly used assessments involve the patient's ability to swallow and vocalize. Having the patient swallow allows you to evaluate the motor function of the vagus nerve, as it is responsible for controlling muscles in the throat that aid in swallowing. Difficulty in swallowing could indicate an issue with the vagus nerve’s function.

Additionally, having the patient say a phrase, such as "Go king kong," can help assess the vagus nerve as well, particularly through evaluation of voice quality and the functioning of the larynx, which is also under vagal control. The quality of the voice can reveal problems with nerve function, such as changes in pitch or hoarseness.

By including both vocalization and swallowing, the testing effectively assesses the areas of the body innervated by the vagus nerve, making this combination of tests comprehensive and reliable.