Use memory profiling tools to identify leaks, analyze your code for unintentional references, and manage resources properly.

Encountering memory leaks in a Node.js application can lead to performance degradation and crashes, making it essential to troubleshoot and resolve these issues promptly. Start by using memory profiling tools like Node.js built-in --inspect flag or third-party tools such as clinic.js or memwatch-next to identify memory usage patterns and pinpoint where leaks may be occurring. Analyze your code for common causes of memory leaks, such as unintended global variables, event listeners that aren’t removed, or retaining references to objects that are no longer needed. Pay close attention to asynchronous operations, as callbacks or promises may inadvertently hold onto references longer than intended. Implement strategies to manage resources properly; for example, ensure that you unsubscribe from event listeners when they are no longer needed and use weak references where appropriate. Additionally, consider using garbage collection tuning options in Node.js if memory pressure is high, as this can help reclaim memory more effectively during heavy loads. Implementing logging to monitor memory usage over time can also help you catch leaks early before they lead to significant issues. By systematically addressing these aspects, you can effectively resolve memory leak issues in your Node.js application.