Memory is defined as the ability to remember a certain type of information such as past events or events that are stored in some areas of the brain. Within this capacity, we find two subtypes of memory: short-term memory, which retains certain information in a small period of time; and the long-term, which is where the most complex information such as knowledge or personal experiences is stored. Therefore, when our brain does not remember where a certain memory was stored, we say that there is a loss of memory. This fact is usually associated with old age and diseases derived from it. But did you know that memory loss can also affect children?
If you think that your child or a child who is in your environment could be suffering from this pathology, we invite you to continue reading this article from where we explain the possible causes of memory loss in children.
Types of memory leak
As we have announced, memory loss, whether in children or adults, consists of forgetting a fact or event because the brain does not finish finding the area where a certain memory was stored. This loss can be of two types: temporary or permanent memory loss.
- Temporary memory loss: this type of case occurs when the infant cannot remember a certain information but, after a period of time, the child's brain “remembers” the way to get to where that memory is stored. An example of this would be when the child forgets the name of a person but, after a while or after a few hours, he manages to remember it.
- Permanent memory loss: it is the information that we forget and that we cannot remember no matter how hard we try or even if another person tries to help us.
You may also be interested in this article on How to Make Juices for Memory.
Causes of memory loss in children
There are different factors that can lead to a child having this lack of memory. Below, we explain the main causes that can cause memory loss, either temporary or permanent.
- Poor diet: a diet poor in vitamins, especially in group B, can lead to the infant temporarily forgetting some memories or important data.
- Poor sleep: Sleeping poorly or less than 7-8 hours can alter our memory.
- Learning problems: Lack of interest or attention can cause the child to have trouble remembering things, especially related to study.
- Side effects of some medications: Some drug treatments may cause these memory failures.
- High fever: These types of symptoms, especially in fevers that reach 39-40 degrees, can create these types of memory problems.
- Emotional problems: Stress, anxiety, and even anger can cause the child to forget some things temporarily. This type of forgetfulness happens because the infant is focused on the threatening stimulus, which causes him to remember nothing except the problem that is stressing him out.
- Head injury: it is very common that if we have suffered a strong blow to the head, we temporarily forget what happened before.
Other more serious causes, which could be causing this lack of memory in a child, can be the following:
- Depression or emotional trauma.
- Thyroid problems.
- Development of a tumor or brain infection.
- Seizures of epilepsy.
- Hypoxia or deficiency in oxygen levels.
Whatever the cause of this memory deficiency, it is recommended that you take the child to the doctor to be correctly diagnosed and given the most appropriate treatment.
How to Prevent Memory Loss in Children
There are some guidelines and recommendations that can improve a child's memory. Below, we teach you through a series of tips how to prevent memory loss in children:
- Make sure your child has adequate daily rest. One way to prevent this problem is to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep every day.
- Take care of their diet: Try to make your child's diet healthy and rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals.
- Help the child with homework and do games and activities with him that allow him to stimulate the brain and memory.
- Analyze their environment to observe that the child is not going through any emotional problems. Talk to him and find out if he is having problems at school or any situation that is stressing him out.
- Try to make the child have a socially healthy life. Too much time at home could only lead to depression and, consequently, memory loss.
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