Heartworm is the name of a parasitic roundworm (Dirofilaria immitis), which is found to spread from one host to another through mosquito bites. A small worm that looks like a thread, it takes dogs as its definitive host. However, it can also be found to affect infect cats, wolves, coyotes, foxes and other animals, such as ferrets and sea lions and, in some cases, even humans. The parasite is known as "heartworm" since it mainly resides in the pulmonary artery of its host, during the adult reproductive stage of its life cycle.
Heartworms can keep on residing in the pulmonary artery of its host for many years. The infection that results from this can cause serious diseases in the host. In fact, if left untreated for a long time, heartworm can even result in the death of its host. Though found in almost all the areas of the world, heartworms mainly breed in the warmer, more southern climates, including most of the United States. Administration of prophylactic treatment, on a monthly basis, serves as the best defense against this disease.
Heartworm Symptoms
If a dog gets affected by heartworm, it might take years for the symptoms to surface. In the early stages of infestation by the parasite, a mild cough is the most common symptom. As the infection remains untreated, it may develop into severe symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Severe coughing
- Breathing difficulties
- Weight loss
- Lack of energy
- Fluid build-up in the abdomen
- Difficulty exercising
- Bloody sputum
- Abnormal lung sounds
- Loss of consciousness
In case, the parasite affects the liver too, additional symptoms like jaundice, loss of appetite and collapse might also be noticed. If the problem remains undiagnosed and untreated for a long period of time, it will result in the eventual death of the animal.
