For mothers across the world, the health and safety of their infants are the most important priorities that can exist. History is chock full of examples of mothers sacrificing their own lives to save their children.
One of the worst conditions that a mother can witness in her infant is Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC). Symptoms of this condition include abdominal distention, blood in the stool, feeding intolerance, and decreased activity. Treatment for NEC typically involves stopping feedings, providing antibiotics, and sometimes surgery to remove the necrotic tissue.
A condition like this at such a young age, even if survived, can have lasting consequences on both the child and the family.
What is Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is a potentially life-threatening inflammatory disorder that affects the intestinal tract, primarily in premature infants.
NEC is characterized by necrosis (death) of bowel tissue, which can lead to holes in the intestine and can also result in sepsis. It is a potentially fatal complication caused by a bacterial infection in the bloodstream.
Although the exact cause of the condition is not well understood, factors that can cause NEC include premature birth, low birth weight, and formula feeding.
NEC is a serious and life-threatening condition with high morbidity and mortality rates. It is a cause for concern in infants who are premature and have low birth weight. Early diagnosis and aggressive management are very crucial for better outcomes.
Why Are People Filing Lawsuits Against Infant Formula Companies?
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is seen frequently in infants who are formula-fed compared to those who are breastfed. Research suggests that the composition of breastmilk may provide a protective effect against NEC, while formula may be more likely to increase the risk of infection and inflammation.
If you have been following the Toxic Baby Formula NEC Lawsuit situation, you might have heard that many families are filing for and receiving compensation due to the amount of financial, emotional, and other damages they have incurred.
Some of the grounds that offending companies are responsible for paying damages for include:
- Medical bills
- Future medical costs
- Pain and suffering
- Lost parent’s wages
- Punitive damages
- Other damages
Why Is This a Big Deal?
Treatment for NEC is not simple or cheap. According to the New England Journal of Medicine, the total cost for a five-year treatment plan was close to $1.5 million dollars.
As you might guess, NEC cases started to be noticed during the 1960s, which is ironically the same time that baby formula started to be regarded as safe and healthy by America.
Treating NEC is challenging and requires close monitoring and management by a team of healthcare professionals with expertise in neonatology, surgery, and nutrition. With prompt diagnosis and treatment and the help of a dedicated team, the outcomes of NEC can be improved.
Treatment for necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) typically involves a combination of medical and surgical interventions. The goal is to stop the progression of the disease and prevent further intestinal damage.
The first step is typically to stop all feedings, which helps reduce the risk of further intestinal damage. Intravenous fluids are given to keep the infant hydrated and provide essential nutrients. Antibiotics are also given to help fight any bacterial infections that may be present.
What About Severe Cases?
In severe cases of NEC, surgery may be required to remove the necrotic (dead) tissue from the intestine. This is done to prevent any perforation, which can lead to sepsis.
After surgery, feedings are gradually resumed over time, with the infants beginning on parenteral nutrition and then transitioning back to enteral nutrition when the gut is considered to be stable.
In some cases, the intestine may be unable to function properly due to extensive damage from NEC, and a temporary or permanent colostomy may be necessary.
This involves creating an opening in the abdomen through which the intestine is brought out, allowing for the removal of stool through a colostomy bag.
Physical therapy and respiratory support may also be necessary, particularly in cases where the NEC has led to significant respiratory distress.
Conclusion
Going through such complex treatment at great cost due to the greed of corporate companies is terrible. Thankfully, more and more people are holding formula companies accountable for their misleading advertising and downplaying of negative side effects.
Baby Formula is not just linked to NEC but a host of other gastrointestinal conditions. If you or anyone you know has suffered due to a formula-associated condition, you have every right to take action to get compensation from the offending companies.
