Unveiling the Silent Threat: Signs of Heartworm in Dogs

• Coughing: One of the early signs of heartworm disease is a persistent cough, which may be dry or have a slight presence of blood. The cough is caused by worms in the dog's lungs, which cause irritation and inflammation.
• Lethargy and Exercise Intolerance: As heartworms multiply and grow in the heart and blood vessels, they can disrupt normal blood flow, reducing oxygen supply to vital organs. This results in lethargy, weakness, and exercise or physical activity intolerance.
• Weight Loss and Poor Condition: Heartworm-infected dogs may experience unexplained weight loss despite maintaining their regular diet. They might also exhibit a decrease in muscle mass and overall poor body condition.
• Difficulty Breathing: As the heartworm infection progresses, it can cause difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. The dog may pant excessively, especially after minimal exertion.
• Enlarged Abdomen: In some cases, an infected dog's abdomen may appear swollen or distended due to fluid retention, a condition known as ascites. This is a result of the heart's inability to pump blood effectively.
• Fainting or Collapsing: Severe heartworm disease cases can lead to fainting or collapsing episodes. This occurs when the worms significantly obstruct blood flow, causing oxygen deprivation to the brain.