Houston Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) Attorneys
Aggressive Advocates with Over 120 Years of Combined Experience
Families across the United States are trying to cope with the effects of Necrotizing Enterocolitis. This devastating medical condition can be terminal for newborn babies, and it is caused by a baby formula containing cow’s milk. Webster Vicknair MacLeodunderstands the emotional and financial toll NEC takes on families. Our fierce litigators not only provide support and legal guidance to our clients, but we also protect their interests in court.
Call our Houston Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) lawyers at (713) 396-5197.
What Is NEC?
Necrotizing Enterocolitis is a gastrointestinal condition where foreign bacteria cause tissue damage or death in the intestinal lining. In some cases, NEC may cause a hole in the intestines to appear causing foreign bacteria and enzymes into the bloodstream which increases the chances of sepsis or further infection exponentially.
NEC predominantly affects newborn babies as they are vulnerable to the bacteria and enzymes in cow’s milk which is found in most baby formulas. Parents may use formula to supplement breastfeeding or in place of it if the mother cannot produce milk on their own. Additionally, most neonatal intensive care units use formula to feed infants during the period of observation.
The necessity of formula combined with the physical vulnerability of the infant and their underdeveloped immune systems make newborns susceptible to severe infection. When foreign bacteria are introduced to the body system through infant formula, the digestive system cannot break down the bacteria adequately and it may stop oxygenated blood from circulating properly throughout the body causing tissue death and neurological damage in severe cases. Without oxygenated blood, the body cannot rebuild damaged tissue and it remains vulnerable to tearing or infection.
Studies show that at least one in four babies who contract NEC require medical intervention to repair the tissue or seal tears and holes that may appear in the intestinal lining. Surgery also poses risks to newborns especially because NEC affects mostly premature babies with little to no capacity for a smooth recovery after an intense invasive procedure.
Take Action
If your child has been diagnosed with NEC or cerebral palsy as the result of NEC, you could be entitled to compensation. Webster Vicknair MacLeod understands the fear and devastation necrotizing enterocolitis can cause which is why we provide compassionate counsel and emotional support to our clients. Entrust your case to a legal team that cares – choose Webster Vicknair MacLeod.
Schedule a consultation with our Houston necrotizing enterocolitis litigation attorneys today for more information.
Symptoms of Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Symptoms of Necrotizing Enterocolitis occur within two to six weeks after birth. These symptoms include:
- Changes in body temperature
- Lethargy
- Swelling
- Changes in blood pressure
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Changes in heart rate
- Diarrhea with bloody stool
- Difficulty breathing
- Abdominal pain
NEC is a serious medical condition that can lead to severe infections or death in some cases. If you believe your child may be suffering from necrotizing enterocolitis, take them to your primary care provider as soon as possible. The doctor will use x-rays and blood samples to test for NEC and may palpate the abdominal area to test for pain. NEC is serious, but early detection can save your child’s life.
Baby Formula Brands Linked to NEC
Baby formula is used by most families and medical facilities in the United States, and unfortunately, many popular brands have been linked to NEC cases. Not only do these brands include cow’s milk as a fortifier, but they may also neglect cross-contamination prevention methods during production.
The following brands are known to use cow’s milk in their formula products:
- Gerber
- Similac Special Care
- Enfamil NeroPro EnfaCare Infant Formula
- Enfamil Human Milk Fortifier
- Happy Baby
- Parent’s Choice
- Earth’s Best
- Holle
- Go & Grow