How the medulla Oblongata works - then figure, how many different symptoms can uccure, if bloodflow is depressed



Medulla Oblongata
The direct upward extension of the spinal cord that lies at the junction between the cerebrum and the spinal cord and is considered to be in a group with the pons and midbrain because the nuclei of all the cranial nerves except one are situated within this structural group. The medullary functions are associated with the nuclei of the glossopharyngeal, vagal, spinal accessory, and hypoglossal nerves. The medulla controls the reflex actions of the pharynx, larynx, and tongue, which are related to deglutition, mastication, and speech, as well as the visceral reflexes of coughing, sneezing, sucking, vomiting, and salivating, and other secretory functions.

The medulla oblongata is a part of the hindbrain that connects the cerebellum, the thalamus, and the cerebrum with the spinal cord at the base of the skull through the foramen magnum.

Function: The centers for the regulation of heart rate, blood flow, respiration, and other responses such as coughing, vomiting, sneezing, etc., are situated in the medulla oblongata. The midbrain part of the brain stem controls responses to sight, such as movements of the eyes, and the pupil size. Homeostasis of the body is regulated by the brainstem centers, aided by the hypothalamus.


American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation:Volume 85(1)January 2006p 104