Necrotizing enterocolitis, or NEC, is a serious disease that affects the intestines of premature infants. It typically happens within the first 2 weeks of life in babies who are fed formula instead of breast milk. In this condition, bacteria invade the wall of the intestine. Inflammation sets in.
What are the symptoms of NEC?
- a swollen, red, or tender belly.
- trouble feeding.
- food staying in the stomach longer than expected.
- constipation.
- diarrhea and/or dark or bloody stools (poop)
- being less active or lethargic.
- a low or unstable body temperature.
- green vomit (containing bile)
What is NEC caused by?
In premature infants, the cause may be related to the immaturity of the child’s digestive system. NEC involves infection and inflammation in the child’s gut, which may stem from the growth of dangerous bacteria or the growth of bacteria in parts of the intestine where they do not usually live.
