GROSS ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -Inhaling moves these molecules into your nose. There, special cells (olfactory receptors) detect these molecules. The receptors relay this information to your brain through your olfactory nerve and allow you to perceive smell.

Detailed explanation-2: -Smells are handled by the olfactory bulb, the structure in the front of the brain that sends information to the other areas of the body’s central command for further processing. Odors take a direct route to the limbic system, including the amygdala and the hippocampus, the regions related to emotion and memory.

Detailed explanation-3: -The olfactory nerve is the first cranial nerve (CN I). It is a sensory nerve that functions for the sense of smell. Olfaction is phylogenetically referred to as the oldest of the senses. It is carried out through special visceral afferent nerve.

Detailed explanation-4: -Each olfactory neuron has one odor receptor. Microscopic molecules released by substances around us-whether it’s coffee brewing or pine trees in a forest-stimulate these receptors. Once the neurons detect the molecules, they send messages to your brain, which identifies the smell.

Detailed explanation-5: -The patient places an index finger over one nostril to block it (e.g., right index finger over right nostril). He or she then closes the eyes. Instruct the patient to sniff repetitively and to tell you when an odor is detected, identifying the odor if recognized.