Brain function is so important for human survival. Not only processing information, the brain also controls all systems in the body, from the respiratory system to the reproductive system. Want to know more about brain function? Come on, see the following discussion.
The brain is one of the largest and most complex organs in the human body. Just imagine, this one organ consists of more than 100 billion nerve cells that are interconnected to connect the brain and the rest of the body. The brain consists of several parts and each part has a different function.
Brain Functions Based on Its Parts
Not only its large size, the brain also has such a great function for human survival. The following is a function of the brain based on its parts:
1. Big brain
As the name implies, the cerebrum is the largest part of the brain and consists of several parts or lobes that have functions, namely:
- The frontal lobe, plays a role as a decision maker, regulates concentration, to control emotions and body movements.
- Temporal lobe, plays a role in managing memory and hearing, as well as capturing and interpreting the emotions of others.
- Parietal lobe, functions to organize and interpret information from other parts of the brain and control the senses.
- The occipital lobe, functions to process information that humans see, such as writing, and controls the human visual system.
2. Little brain
Little brain or cerebellum located behind and below the cerebrum. Although its size is smaller than the cerebrum, the function of the cerebellum is no less important.
The function of the cerebellum is to control balance, movement, and body coordination. Thanks to this part of the brain, a person can stand straight, walk with balance, and move agilely.
3. Brain stem
The brain stem is in front of the cerebellum and below the cerebrum. This section connects the brain with the spinal cord. The brain stem is divided into several parts with different functions in each part, namely:
- Midbrain, functions to control eye movements and process information obtained audio and visual.
- The pons consists of a group of nerves that control facial movements, transmit sensory information, stimulate breathing, and control sleep cycles.
- The medulla oblongata is responsible for controlling heart and lung functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing.
4. Diencephalon
The diencephalon is located at the base of the brain and has three parts:
- The thalamus is responsible for memory, sleep cycles, and awareness, and transmits or transmits information to other body systems.
- The hypothalamus functions to regulate appetite, emotions, body temperature, the body's biological clock, and the production and release of hormones.
- The epithalamus, or amygdala, plays a role in regulating emotions, behavior, and long-term memory.
5. Basal ganglia
Every coordinating function in the brain requires a section called the basal ganglia. The existence of this section serves to manage messages to be delivered or sent to several parts of the brain. The basal ganglia are structures that surround part of the thalamus in the brain.
The brain can be damaged which results in impaired brain function. Damage to the brain can be in the form of physical injury or due to rupture of blood vessels that supply blood to the brain, for example from a stroke.
In addition, various diseases and disorders can also occur in the brain, including infections, cancer, electrolyte disturbances, alcohol and drug poisoning, kidney failure, and severe liver function disorders.
So that brain function remains optimal, take several preventive steps, such as protecting your head when driving, working, exercising, or doing other activities. In addition, consume nutritious food, get enough rest time, avoid stress, and do brain exercises regularly.
If there are signs or symptoms that refer to impaired brain function, such as muscle weakness or paralysis, seizures, severe headaches that do not go away, or decreased consciousness, immediately consult a doctor for treatment.