Common Gastrointestinal Diseases in Newborns

- Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)

Definition:

A serious condition where parts of the intestine become inflamed and die due to poor blood supply and bacterial infection.

Risk Factors:

Prematurity
Formula feeding instead of breastfeeding
Birth complications (oxygen deprivation)
Poor hygiene in medical procedures

Symptoms:

Inability to digest milk
Vomiting
Abdominal bloating and redness
Blood in stool
Lethargy and low body temperature

Treatment & Care:

Stop feeding
Monitor vital signs and breathing
Provide IV nutrition and antibiotics
Surgery in severe cases to remove damaged intestine

Complications:

Intestinal gangrene
Intestinal perforation
Short bowel syndrome
Adhesions (intestinal blockages)