The Role of the Vagus Nerve in Speaking and Singing

Abstract

ABSTRACT The main purpose of this article is to obtain a more precise understanding of the function and impact of the vagus nerve on singing and speaking. The paper also investigates the complexity of the vagus nerve in the nervous system and respiration. This article considers the anatomy, function, and interrelatedness of this nerve and expands exclusively on primary sources from peer-reviewed journal articles and cross-referenced various fields of science. As a result, this article shows that the vagus nerve and its branches: a) are intrinsically involved in interoception; b) carry impulses from and to the larynx and pharynx; c) innervate the crural diaphragm/lungs, and its activity is modulated by respiration; d) mediate the protection of the air passage through the initiation of protective reflexes; e) damage relates to several vocal disorders and can also reduce tongue movement; f) are a part of the autonomic nervous system and represent the main proponent of the parasympathetic nervous system; g) compound not only verbal but also emotional states; h) activity is under the control of the central nervous system via the central autonomic network. Future studies of this nature are necessary to ensure that voice science adopts effective and comprehensive approaches.