The brain is an important organ that consists of many neural networks. From several parts of the brain, it turns out that the function of the midbrain (midbrain) becomes an important element that acts as a connecting point between the main brain regions.
The midbrain is also known as the mesencephalon. This brain is located in the brainstem, which is between the forebrain (forebrain) and hindbrain (hindbrain). The midbrain is the smallest part of the brainstem with a size of only about 1.5 cm.
Function and Structure of the Midbrain
Like the forebrain and hindbrain, the midbrain has a very important function. The main function of the midbrain is to be part of the central nervous system which is related to the following:
- Sight and hearing
- Excitement
- Alertness
- Temperature setting
- Motor control, especially eye and mouth movements
- Delivery of sensory stimuli, such as heat and pain
Judging from its structure, the midbrain has 3 parts with different functions, namely:
Tektum
The tectum is located at the top of the midbrain which is composed of two protrusions named superior colliculi and inferior colliculi. Superior colliculi play a role in the visual process, whereas inferior colliculi more
Tegmentum
The tegmentum is located in front of the tectum. This tegmentum consists of fiber channels and 3 parts that are distinguished by color, namely the red nucleus, periaqueductal gray matter, and substantia nigra.
The red nucleus plays a role in the coordination of sensory information, periaqueductal The gray matter plays a role in suppressing pain, while the substantia nigra is more involved in mediating movement and motor coordination.
Cerebral peduncle
The function of the midbrain of the cerebral pendukulus (cerebral peduncle) is as the main road that carries and delivers signals from the outer part of the body to other parts of the central nervous system. In addition, this part of the midbrain also plays an important role in coordinating body movements.
Things That Can Damage Brain Function
Damage to brain function in general can cause midbrain function disorders. One of the main causes is head injury due to impact.
The degree of damage to brain function due to injury varies widely. Minor head injuries can cause nausea, headaches, memory impairment, and loss of consciousness. Meanwhile, severe head injury causes sufferers to experience cognitive disabilities, behavioral disorders, and even physical disabilities.
In addition to head injuries due to impact, there are also other things that can cause damage to brain function, including:
- Infection
- stroke
- Heart attack
- Tumor
- Aneurysm
- Neurological disease
- Abuse of illegal drugs
- Poisoning or exposure to toxic substances
- Choking, choking, or drowning
In order to maintain brain health, apply a healthy lifestyle and always be alert when driving or doing activities. This is done to prevent or reduce the risk of head injury which can cause tissue damage and impaired midbrain function and overall brain function.
If you experience headaches, vision and hearing problems, impaired movement, or a hard hit to the head, see a doctor immediately. That way, the doctor can check and determine the right treatment according to your condition.