Use profiling tools to identify uncollected variables, check for event listeners, and optimize code structure to avoid memory accumulation.

Memory leaks in a Node.js application can gradually lead to performance degradation, causing the app to slow down and even crash over time. Start by profiling your app with memory leak detection tools like Node’s built-in memory profiler or third-party tools like Clinic.js, which provide insights into heap usage and help identify objects that are retained in memory longer than necessary. Common sources of leaks include uncollected variables, unintended global variables, and open event listeners that aren’t closed after usage—each of these issues causes memory to accumulate without being freed. Additionally, review any caching mechanisms in your app to ensure they aren’t holding onto stale data, which can cause excessive memory consumption. Refactoring code to avoid circular references and optimizing functions to create fewer objects in memory-intensive operations can further alleviate memory leaks. Regular monitoring of memory usage through logging and automated alerts helps catch leaks early, allowing you to take preventive measures to maintain app performance and stability.