What effect do roundworms have on their hosts?

Roundworms, also known as nematodes, can significantly impact their hosts by causing digestive disturbances. These parasites live in the host's gastrointestinal tract and can lead to various health issues. When infested, they can interfere with the host's ability to absorb nutrients properly, leading to malnourishment, weight loss, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.

The presence of roundworms can also provoke an immune response, but rather than enhancing immune function, it often leads to a pathological response and can result in inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining. While parasites can sometimes have complex interactions with their hosts, promoting a more favorable environment for certain bodily functions isn't typical for roundworms, which generally exert a detrimental effect on their host's health.