Question:
Stimulation of the external auditory canal leads to cough due to which nerve?
Stimulation of the external auditory canal leads to cough due to which nerve?
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The same cranial nerve also supplies the larynx, which is why poking the ear canal can make you cough.
Updated On: Jun 23, 2026
- Auricular branch of vagus
- Greater auricular nerve
- Auriculotemporal nerve
- Facial nerve
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The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
Answer: Auricular branch of vagus.
Step 1: The posterior wall and floor of the external auditory canal (EAC) are supplied by the auricular branch of the vagus nerve, also called Arnold's nerve, along with a contribution from the facial nerve.
Step 2: The vagus nerve also supplies the larynx and pharynx. So when the EAC is stimulated, the afferent signal travels via the vagus and can trigger a cough reflex. This is the basis of Arnold's ear cough reflex.
Step 3: The greater auricular nerve and auriculotemporal nerve supply other parts of the auricle and skin but do not mediate the cough reflex. Hence the auricular branch of the vagus is correct.
Ref: Shambaugh, Glasscock's Surgery of the Ear.
Step 1: The posterior wall and floor of the external auditory canal (EAC) are supplied by the auricular branch of the vagus nerve, also called Arnold's nerve, along with a contribution from the facial nerve.
Step 2: The vagus nerve also supplies the larynx and pharynx. So when the EAC is stimulated, the afferent signal travels via the vagus and can trigger a cough reflex. This is the basis of Arnold's ear cough reflex.
Step 3: The greater auricular nerve and auriculotemporal nerve supply other parts of the auricle and skin but do not mediate the cough reflex. Hence the auricular branch of the vagus is correct.
Ref: Shambaugh, Glasscock's Surgery of the Ear.
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