Your child's memory is processed by the part of his brain called the hippocampus, according to Kids Health. There are a number of things that can cause your child to experience short-term memory loss. His doctor can help determine the cause and method of treatment, if necessary.
ADHD
If your child's short-term memory loss is inconsistent and usually involves forgetting where she placed things, she may have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In addition to forgetting things, symptoms include difficulty focusing, trouble organizing, feelings of restlessness and being easily distracted. Doctors are unsure what causes ADHD.
Head Trauma
Your child may experience short-term memory loss after a severe hit to the head that can occur after a fall or car or bike accident. If he experiences lightheadedness, headaches, nausea, blurred vision and has trouble balancing, he may have a concussion and have trouble remembering what happened before and after the injury. This is temporary, but Kids Health states the more severe the injury, the longer the memory loss lasts.
Other Causes
Your child's short-term memory loss may occur after seizures or epileptic episodes. If she recently had a period where she stopped breathing, the lack of oxygen to her brain may cause short-term memory loss. She can also experience this type of memory loss if she has a brain tumor.
Testing
It is important to notify your child's doctor of any unexplained memory loss, according to MedlinePlus. The doctor may want to do a physical exam and a CT scan, which takes pictures of your child's brain. He might also ask your child questions to test his memory, such as asking him to recall names, events and places. The doctor will want to know about any recent accidents or injuries.
Treatment
Although there is no cure for ADHD, the disorder can be managed with counseling and medications. If your child is experiencing short-term memory loss after a concussion, her memory will likely return over time and the doctor will just want to make sure there is no permanent brain damage. In many cases, short-term memory loss is temporary. If it is caused by seizures or a brain tumor, the source of the problem will need to be treated before memory improves.
