Early detection of NEC prevents worsening of intestinal infections in newborns

Welcoming the presence of a newborn requires a lot of preparation. Not only do parents have to prepare the items they need, they also have to know how to take care of their baby's health. One important information you need to know is necrosis enterocolitis (NEC) which is vulnerable to newborns, especially premature babies.

This serious condition occurs when the baby's small intestine tissue or large intestine is damaged or killed. NEC usually only affects the intestine, but can also develop in all parts of the intestine. In fact, NEC can grow very fast so it is very important for you to detect it as soon as possible.
 
How to detect NEC early in infants?

As a digestive system disorder that is very dangerous, of course you must be vigilant if your baby has NEC. Because not only causes inflammation of the intestine, NEC can also cause the formation of holes in the intestinal wall.

Formation of this hole can cause bacterial leakage in the intestine. This of course can trigger serious infections that affect your baby. Therefore, so that NEC does not get worse, here are ways to detect NEC early that parents can do:
 
1. Pay attention to the signs of NEC
When babies have unusual signs, you should start to be careful and attentive. It is important to know the symptoms of NEC in infants as early as possible to detect intestinal infections. Regarding the NEC mark on babies you should pay attention, namely:
  • Swelling of the stomach

When you see a swelling in your baby's abdomen, you must be vigilant because this can be a sign of NEC. Especially if the swelling is accompanied by changes in color in the stomach.

  • vomit

If your baby suddenly vomits, be careful. Because vomiting is one of the signs of NEC in infants. Babies who vomit often lose their appetite.

  • Diarrhea

Diarrhea in babies can certainly cause pain and cry more often. Even though this is not always a sign of NEC, you must remain vigilant. Diarrhea is a common sign of NEC in infants.

  • Bloody droppings

This is a sign that cannot be ignored. If a baby's stool bleeds, you should consult with them. Bloody stools can indicate NEC in babies who are starting to deteriorate, so they should seek immediate medical attention.

2. Perform an examination at the doctor
If you feel that your baby is showing signs of NEC, you should immediately consult with your doctor to be sure. The doctor can detect NEC by doing a physical examination and conducting a series of tests.
  • Physical examination. During the examination, the doctor will touch your baby's stomach to see if it is swollen and painful.
  • X-ray of the stomach. An abdominal x-ray can provide a clear picture of the intestine so the doctor can look for signs of inflammation and injury.
  • Blood test. Blood tests may also be needed to measure platelet levels and the number of white blood cells in your baby. Low platelet counts or high white blood cell counts can be a sign of NEC.
  • Stool test. Baby poop can also be checked for blood
  • Intestinal fluid examination. The doctor may also need to check the fluid in the baby's intestine by inserting a needle into the baby's abdominal cavity. Fluid in the intestine is usually a sign that there is a hole in the baby's intestine.

Conducting a medical examination is very important for you to get a correct diagnosis of your baby's condition. If it is proven that your baby is NEC, the doctor will immediately determine its treatment.

When should parents start to worry?

The first treatment you can take when your baby is exposed to NEC is to give him an antibiotic that is prescribed by a doctor. Antibiotics can help fight and prevent infection.

In addition, painkillers prescribed by the doctor may also be needed if the baby has difficulty crying. Give the medication as directed and tell the doctor if the medicine you are using will not improve your baby's condition.

Also, don't give your baby aspirin because this can cause Reye's syndrome. Reye's syndrome can cause brain and liver damage which can threaten the baby's life.

Parents naturally start to worry when NEC symptoms occur. However, if the baby suffers from the following conditions, you should immediately consult a doctor:
  • fever
  • More fussy and crying often
  • Baby's skin is itchy, swollen, or irritated
  • It's hard to breathe until your nails and skin turn blue
  • Can not eat or drink
  • Rarely urinate or not at all
  • Experiencing a crisis
  • Sleep and sleep more than usual
  • There is blood vomiting or diapers

Most babies who receive immediate and appropriate care usually recover completely. Therefore, always consult with your doctor about NEC care for your baby.

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