The brain stem (base of the brain) is located near bony protrusions that make it vulnerable to damage during trauma. The brain stem serves to provide the individual with basic attention, arousal and consciousness. The brain stem connects the brain to the body and performs basic survival functions such as breathing and heart rate.
When trauma causes brain swelling, fluid pushes up against the skull and can cause the brain to push down on the brain stem. This compression of the brain stem can damage the part of the brain that is responsible for consciousness.
Signs and symptoms associated with a brain stem injury include:
- Altered heart rate
- Loss of consciousness
- Abnormal breathing patterns
- Inability to control movement
- Inability to cough or gag
- Abnormal sleeping patterns
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