damage to what part of brain causes difficulty breathing
Three sections, the midbrain, the pons and the medulla, comprise the brain stem. The medulla, which is located between the pons and spinal cord, regulates breathing and heart rate. Injury to the medulla results in breathing difficulties. Medline Plus includes brain stem injury among the causes of slowed breathing. The cells in the medulla monitor the concentration of carbon dioxide in the body. If levels of carbon dioxide rise, the medulla responds by increasing the activity of the motor nerves that control the intercostal muscles and the diaphragm.