The Brainstem

The Brainstem functions as our own privet "auto-pilot".
it is located at lower part of the brain, directly connected
to the spinal cord. The neurological functions
located in the brainstem include:
breathing, digestion, heart rate,
blood pressure and arousal.

Most cranial nerves originate in the brainstem.
The brainstem is the pathway for all fiber tracts
passing up and down from peripheral nerves and
spinal cord to the upper areas of the brain.

Medulla Oblongata - functions as a relay station for
the crossing of motor tracts between the spinal cord
and the brain. It also contains the respiratory, motor
and cardiac functions, as well as several mechanisms
of reflex activities such as coughing,
swallowing and vomiting.

Midbrain - The midbrain serves as the nerve pathway
of the cerebral hemispheres and contains auditory and
visual reflex centers.

Pons - The pons is an area that links different parts
of the brain and serves as a relay station from the
medulla to the higher cortical structures of the brain.
It contains the respiratory center.

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