PATHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Over time, the worms will cause severe lung disease, heart failure, and damage to other organs, such as the kidneys. Dogs and other species such as wolves, coyotes, and foxes are the primary hosts of heartworms.

Detailed explanation-2: -Microfilariae primarily injure the lungs and liver. Destruction of lung tissue leads to coughing. Liver injury leads to cirrhosis of the liver, causing jaundice, anemia, and generalized weakness. The kidneys may also be affected and allow toxins to accumulate in the body.

Detailed explanation-3: -Most heartworm microfilariae die on their way through the skin. Even if they do get into your blood somehow, heartworms can’t mature and will eventually die off. In most cases, heartworms in humans aren’t a serious problem unless they cause pain, discomfort, and other noticeable symptoms.