What Are the Long-Term Implications of Intestinal Damage?
The long-term outlook for neonates with intestinal damage varies. Some may recover completely with appropriate treatment, while others may face chronic issues like:
- Malabsorption: Difficulty in absorbing nutrients, which can lead to growth delays and deficiencies. - Chronic Diarrhea: Persistent loose stools that can lead to dehydration and nutrient loss. - Developmental Delays: Due to prolonged malnutrition or chronic illness. - Liver Disease: From long-term total parenteral nutrition (TPN).