Dogs that are harboring heartworms generally don’t show any symptoms. They may carry heartworms for several years before effects of the damage to the heart and lungs are evident. The presence of adult heartworms in the heart and blood vessels that runs between the heart and lungs can cause damage to structure, scarring, and inflammation. Dogs with a heavy heartworm infestation develop a cough, distinct weight loss, and a distended belly. Without prompt medical intervention, dogs can die from heartworm infestation. Death may be caused by a worm breaking loose and become an emboli, blocking the flow of blood to other parts of the body, or damage to the heart leads to arrhythmia or heart failure. Dogs with heartworms are high anesthetic risks and have poor tolerance to stress and physical activity. Talk with your veterinarian Lewisville, TX about treatment and/or preventive options for heartworms.
