Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious condition of the
intestine. The intestine digests food. It also moves food from
the stomach to the anus. NEC is the swelling and destruction of
a part of the intestine. This condition often occurs soon after
your baby starts feeding. It is found mostly in premature and
very low birthweight babies. NEC can also be found in full-term
infants. This is condition requires care from your baby’s
doctor. NEC often occurs in the first two weeks of life but can
occur as late as 3 months of age. The baby is often still in the
hospital when NEC starts. The exact cause of NEC is not known.
Below is a possible series of events that can lead to NEC: -
Premature babies do not have fully developed intestines. This
may make it difficult for the intestines to handle the stress of
moving food. - The stress may cause a decrease in oxygen or
blood flow to the intestines. The loss of oxygen and blood flow
can cause damage to the intestine. - Bacteria can enter the
intestine through the d