• NEC: swelling and inflammation that can develop in some premature babies in a portion of their bowel, which causes tissue death (ischemia) in that area.
• Symptoms may include:
  • Malaise (general unwellness)
  • Vomiting
  • Increased stomach size and tenderness to touch
  • Red or abnormal colouring of skin on tummy
  • Blood in stool (bowel movement)
• Can present as mild or very serious.
• If NEC is suspected doctors may stop regular feeds, and begin IV feeding.
• Babies will often need abdominal X-rays, antibiotics, and frequent blood tests.
• Most babies that get the disease will recover and not have future difficulties from it, but some will need surgery and may have bowel problems in the future.

Reference:

AbbVie Corporation (Ed.). (2015). Preemie Parent Handbook (4th ed.). Canada: AbbVie Corportation.