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Health Topics/Healthy Nervous System/Brain and Nervous System/Functions of the Brain

What is the function of the brainstem?

Natalia S. Rost, MD
Natalia S. Rost, MD
Neurology
The brainstem, an extension of the spinal cord, is the oldest part of the brain in evolutionary terms. It connects the rest of the brain to the spinal cord and regulates blood pressure, breathing, chewing, swallowing, and eye movements. At the top of the brainstem is the thalamus, which relays sensory information to other parts of the brain.

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