The brain consists of literally billions of nerve cells that control all human activity, including thinking, emotion, action and movement. These microscopic nerve cells form bundles of nerve fibers that altogether form a gelatinous mass, which is cradled in the skull. Brain tissue is very delicate – even just poking it with your finger can cause disruption of neural pathways.

Protecting the brain from the normal bumps and scrapes of life is the skull, a bony framework that totally encases the brain. Next, there are three layers of membranes and finally, a cushion of fluid called cerebrospinal fluid.

The brain is made up of three systems, any of which may sustain damage in a head injury. The brainstem, which sits at the base of the brain and continues down to become the spinal cord, is responsible for maintaining arousal and tone for the cortex, the higher functioning areas of the brain. It also maintains certain functions your body performs automatically, such as regulation of breathing, swallowing, heart rate and body temperature.

The rear part of the brain is responsible for processing information from the sensory organs, such as vision, hearing, taste, smell and feel. Finally, the front of the brain is responsible for coordinating all this information and making decisions to do things.