Baby Formula NEC Claims Attorneys
Award-Winning Advocates Nationwide
Many recent cases of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) have been attributed to baby formula products from several major manufacturers. Our team at Casey Law Offices, S.C. have experience handling infant injury claims and we can provide guidance and support throughout the process.
Our award-winning firm has the knowledge and experience you need to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call Casey Law Offices, S.C. for your NEC baby formula claim at (414) 272-5564 to learn more.
What Is Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)?
NEC or necrotizing enterocolitis is a gastrointestinal condition most common among newborn babies. This condition can cause the intestinal tissue to die or create a hole in the lining that allows bacteria to leak through causing infections. Because infants have a delicate immune and gastrointestinal system, an infection from NEC could cause permanent damage.
One of the leading causes of necrotizing enterocolitis is cow based baby formula. Many formula brands use cow’s milk as a primary ingredient to fortify the product, but it often contains enzymes and bacteria that are not digestible by premature babies.
Premature infants are especially vulnerable because of the underdevelopment of their immune systems. If foreign bacteria are introduced into the body, the premature baby may not be able to fight off infection.
In many cases, the enzymes and bacteria found in cow’s milk hinder oxygenated blood from reaching the intestines which leaves them more vulnerable to infection and tissue damage. Additionally, should tissue damage occur, the lack of blood flow makes it more challenging to rebuild the damaged tissue.
Should a newborn contract NEC, they could have severe tissue damage, or a hole may form in their intestinal wall causing a bacterial leak and infection.
Studies show that at least one in four babies who contact necrotizing enterocolitis need surgery to remove dead tissue or repair tears in the intestinal lining. Surgery, especially for premature newborns, is high risk and complications may occur resulting in permanent damage and a lifetime of gastrointestinal issues.
NEC Symptoms
Generally, necrotizing enterocolitis may occur within two to six weeks after birth. Symptoms of this condition include:
- Lethargy
- Changes in body temperature
- Abdominal pain
- Changes in blood pressure
- Swelling
- Changes in heart rate
- Diarrhea with bloody stool
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
NEC is a serious condition that can lead to permanent internal damage or death in some cases. If you believe your child may have necrotizing enterocolitis, contact your health care provider immediately. In most cases, the doctor may perform x-rays and fecal tests in addition to taking blood samples to determine the diagnosis.
NEC from Baby Formula
Approximately one in ten babies are born prematurely and 10% of them develop necrotizing enterocolitis. When an infant is born prematurely, they are put into the care of the neonatal intensive care unit staff for observation to ensure that the child survives and to issue medical treatment if necessary. Most NICUs in the United States use baby formula to feed the infants in the absence of their mother.
To make matters worse, many popular formula brands contain cow’s milk and other bacteria that cause necrotizing enterocolitis. Lawsuits nationwide has been filed against major formula manufacturers whose products caused NEC in infants born before 37 weeks of gestation.
The following companies use cow’s milk in their formula products:
- Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare Infant Formula
- Enfamil Human Milk Fortifier
- Gerber
- Holle
- Parent’s Choice
- Earth’s Best
- Similac Special Care
- Happy Baby
- Go & Grow
If you use any of the brands listed above and your child has been diagnosed with NEC, you may be entitled to compensation. Their ingredients not only harm children, but their marketing tactics are predatory and misleading to convince parents to purchase their products.
These formula brands are responsible for putting your child at risk of permanent intestinal damage or surgical complications from NEC. The care and cost of a sick baby take an emotional toll on your family. With the help of our attorneys, you can hold these companies accountable for their negligence and prevent more cases of NEC.
Entrust Your Case to An Experienced Law Firm
If you have received an NEC diagnosis for your child, you can pursue legal action. Casey Law Offices, S.C. handles a variety of complex legal claims and we never back down from a fight. When our clients need a fierce advocate on their side, our attorneys are there to help.
Schedule a consultation with our team at Casey Law Offices, S.C. to find out how we can fight for you.
