Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) Symptoms From Baby Formula

Parents nationwide are filing lawsuits against Abbott Laboratories and Mead Johnson & Company, manufacturers of baby formula brands Similac and Enfamil. These lawsuits claim that the manufacturers failed to warn consumers that their cow milk-based formulas could cause premature infants to develop necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

Below we provide a list of NEC symptoms and information about claims filed against makers of Enfamil and Similac. If you believe your baby is exhibiting NEC symptoms as a result of Enfamil or Similac baby formula, speak with your doctor right away.

What Is Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)?

NEC is a bacterial condition that affects the intestines of premature infants. This potentially deadly condition occurs when bacteria invades the wall of the intestine and creates holes or cracks that allow bacteria to leak into the abdomen. Doctors and other medical professionals often treat this condition with antibiotics. When serious, surgery may be necessary to remove the damaged intestine.

There are four types of NEC classified by healthcare providers. The different types include:

  • Classic
  • Transfusion-associated
  • Atypical
  • Term infant

The classic type is the most common type of NEC. It most often affects infants born prematurely and occurs two to six weeks after birth. This classic type of NEC can come on suddenly and without warning. For this reason, parents and healthcare providers need to be vigilant for the symptoms associated with NEC. Infants with this potentially fatal condition will need medical attention right away.

If your premature infant consumed Enfamil or Similac formulas while in the NICU and then required surgery due to NEC-related issues, speak to an attorney. You may have legal options and may be eligible to file a baby formula lawsuit.

Necrotizing Enterocolitis Symptoms

NEC symptoms can appear suddenly or develop over a period of days. Symptoms can include the following:

  • Pain or tenderness when someone touches the stomach
  • Stomach discoloration, usually reddish or bluish
  • Swelling or bloating in the belly
  • Constipation
  • Bloody stools and/or diarrhea
  • Being lethargic or less active
  • Poor tolerance or difficulty feeding
  • Change in volume or frequency of stools
  • An unstable or low body temperature
  • Vomiting green-ish yellow liquid containing bile
  • Apnea or episodes of low heart rate

Baby Formula Lawsuits and NEC

Similac and Enfamil are cow’s milk-based baby formulas often given to premature babies in the NICU. These formulas may cause NEC in premature infants. With serious cases of NEC, the infant may have ongoing problems, require surgery, or even die. If doctors diagnose your premature infant with a serious case of NEC, speak to an attorney to understand the legal options you may have.

At Grant & Eisenhofer P.A. our attorneys continue to investigate these lawsuits for families nationwide. Contact our team today to schedule a free consultation.

Scroll to Top