The signs and symptoms of NEC can be difficult to diagnose because NEC symptoms are similar to other medical problems that babies may have (like a widespread infection called sepsis). NEC symptoms can also differ in how severe the symptoms are. Some of them include:
- Swollen, red, grey or tender belly (abdomen)
- Difficulty feeding or digesting feeding
- Showing less activity or energy than usual
- Unstable body temperature (either cold or hot)
- Diarrhea
- Bloody poop (stools)
- Vomiting (possibly green in color)
- More short periods without breathing (apnea) or a decrease in heart rate (bradycardia)
Things to watch for:
- Blood in dirty diaper
- Stops breathing (apnea)
- Heartbeat slows down (bradycardia)
- Body temperature too low or too high
- Less active or change in behavior
- Not digesting feedings well