Cognitive impairment means that there is a change in the way a person thinks, reacts to emotions, or behaves. What happens in the body? A person can be born with cognitive impairment. In this case, we usually talk about mental retardation. It can result from birth damage, such as lack of oxygen. It could also result from a defect during the child's education. Cognitive impairment can also occur later in life, following an injury or as part of an illness. What are the signs and symptoms of the condition? Cognitive impairment interferes with the body's normal function. The change may be subtle and have little or no impact on a person's daily functioning. In other cases, the damage may be obvious. Cognitive impairment can range from mild memory problems to exaggerated emotional reactions. It can also result in a complete inability to think independently. What are the causes and risks of this condition? Cognitive impairment, known as mental retardation, may be present at the birth of a child. It may also be the result of: · abuse of prescription medications, chemicals, drugs, or alcohol · an illness, such as Alzheimer's disease · a side effect of certain medications · trauma, such as a head injury Elderly and frail people who come removed from a familiar environment often develops cognitive problems. This can happen when they go to hospital due to illness or when they are moved to a nursing home. Depending on the cause, cognitive impairments can be temporary or permanent. What can be done to prevent the condition? Cognitive impairment can occur at any age and cannot always be prevented. However, the following measures may be helpful: · Avoid illegal drugs · Drink alcohol in moderation or not at all · Follow sports safety guidelines for children, adolescents, and adults · Get ​​prenatal care during pregnancy · Use medications only as directedHow it comes diagnosed with the condition? In some cases, mental retardation may be diagnosed at birth. A child with Down syndrome, for example, is often identified by characteristic traits. The diagnosis is confirmed with a chromosomal analysis. Other tests used to diagnose cognitive disorders include: · cognitive tests, which provide information about the individual's memory and thinking skills · CT scan of the head · MRI of the head · spinal tap What are the long-term effects of the condition? A person with cognitive impairment can often live a near-normal life.