What is the Brain?
The brain communicates and receives signals from the rest of the body via the spinal cord, located at the base of the brain. Combined, the brain and the spinal cord make up the central nervous system, also known as the CNS.
Organization of the Brain
The brain is organized into three large structures: the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem. The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain and is responsible for coordinating movement, as well as thinking, reasoning, problem-solving, and learning. The cerebellum, sometimes called the “little brain,” controls your balance and coordination. Lastly, the brainstem regulates vital life functions, including breathing, heart rate and sleep.
Concussion
Cerebrospinal Fluid
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI), which occurs when the head is hit so hard that it causes the brain to rapidly move back and forth within the skull. This rapid movement can cause the brain tissue to change shape, which can stretch and/or damage neurons and brain cells. Symptoms of a concussion can include confusion, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, nausea/vomiting, and sensitivity to light, among others. After experiencing a concussion, the brain needs time to rest and heal and once it recovers these symptoms usually go away.
Cerebrospinal fluid (also know as CSF) is a clear liquid that flows around the brain and the spinal cord. CSF protects the brain and spinal cord, as well as provides nutrients and removes any waste.
CSF is produced in the ventricles, which are fluid-filled spaces in the middle of the brain. Once it leaves the ventricles, CSF flows around the head between the surface of the brain and tissues called the meninges. The meninges keep the CSF contained, as well as supports the central nervous system and protects it from injury.
The brain is the command center for entire your body, controlling things like movement, emotions, thought, memory, touch and every other process in the body. The brain is located within and protect by the skull, which is the bony structure in the head.