The brain is the control center for all voluntary movement in the human body. Within the brain are lobes that control functioning, such as consciousness, emotions and personality. Different lobes are responsible for different functions. Buried within the lobes and regions of the brain are a number of other structures that have specific functions. An injury to any one part of the brain may disrupt a specific function for the individual.
Cerebrum and Cerebellum
The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain. It is located in the front area and is divided into two halves called hemispheres. Each hemisphere contains four lobes that control a variety of different functions. The cerebellum is another part of the brain located at the bottom rear of the head. Functions of the cerebellum are to control a person's mobility, balance and posture.
Frontal Lobe
The frontal lobe is the largest of all the lobes and is located in the area of your forehead. According to "Core Curriculum for Critical Care Nurses," the frontal lobe is responsible for higher level functioning, concentration and personality. This part of the brain is the area that controls your ability to plan or worry, and it control your inhibitions. The website All About Traumatic Brain Injury notes that an injury to this area can change your personality or behavior and impair judgement.
Temporal Lobe
The temporal lobe is located in each hemisphere of the cerebrum, just above your ears. The temporal lobe plays a role in your perceptions, smells and tastes. It is also actively involved in your aggressiveness and sexual behaviors.
Parietal and Occipital Lobe
The parietal lobe is responsible for processing spatial and sensory awareness. It is located on the top of the head just behind the frontal lobes. This area plays a major role in hand-eye coordination and arm movement. All bout Traumatic Brain Injury indicates that damage to the parietal lobe will disrupt shape, size and color identification, as well as distance perception.
The occipital lobe is located at the very rear of the brain and controls vision and recognition.
Cerebral Cortex
The cerebral cortex is a thin tissue that covers both hemispheres of the cerebrum. The cerebral cortex plays a part in your thinking, reasoning and overall behavior. Cortex injuries can cause mood changes and an inability to pay attention.
Buried Structures
A few important structures buried within the regions of the brain are the brainstem and the hypothalamus. The brainstem connects to the spinal cord at the back of the brain. The brainstem is made up of three parts: the midbrain, pons and medulla oblongata. Functions of the brainstem include your breathing, heart rate and consciousness. The hypothalamus is a part of the brain that controls hunger, thirst and body temperature.
Disruption in any part of the brain can have a long-term effect on your day-to-day functioning.
References
- "Core Curriculum for Critical Care Nurses"; Saunders Elesvier; 2006
- Traumatic Brain Injury: Parts of the Human Brain
