Swim Bladder Disease in Fish: Complete Treatment Guide

**Quick Answer:** Swim bladder disease affects a fish's ability to control buoyancy, causing floating, sinking, or swimming sideways. Treatment includes fasting for 24-48 hours, feeding thawed peas to clear constipation, and adding Epsom salt (1 tablespoon per 19 litres). Most cases resolve within 1-2 weeks with proper care and water quality management.

**Related Searches:** Fish swimming upside down, goldfish floating at top of tank, betta fish swimming sideways, fish can't swim properly, fish floating on side, fish flipping upside down, fish buoyancy problems

Not sure if it's swim bladder disease? Upload a photo to FinsDoc for instant AI diagnosis: https://finsdoc.com.au

What is Swim Bladder Disease?

Swim bladder disease (or disorder) is a common condition that affects a fish's swim bladder - the gas-filled organ that helps fish control their buoyancy and position in the water. When this organ malfunctions, fish struggle to maintain normal swimming patterns and position.

This condition is particularly common in fancy goldfish varieties (like orandas, ryukins, and fantails) due to their compressed body shapes, but can affect any species including bettas, guppies, and other popular aquarium fish.

Symptoms

Floating uncontrollably at the water surface

Sinking to the bottom and struggling to swim up

Swimming sideways or upside down

Curved or bent body position

Difficulty maintaining normal position

Swollen or distended abdomen

Loss of appetite or reduced feeding

Lethargy and reduced activity

Causes

Overfeeding or feeding dry foods that expand in the stomach

Constipation from low-fiber diet

Gulping air when eating floating foods

Rapid eating habits (especially in goldfish)

Bacterial or parasitic infections

Physical injury to the swim bladder

Congenital defects (especially in fancy goldfish)

Poor water quality causing stress and weakened immunity

Sudden temperature changes

Treatment Steps

1. **Fast your fish** - Withhold all food for 24-48 hours to allow the digestive system to clear

2. **Feed high-fiber foods** - Offer thawed frozen peas (shell removed and mashed) to help with constipation

3. **Add Epsom salt** - Dissolve 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt per 19 litres to reduce swelling and aid digestion

4. **Maintain water quality** - Perform a 25-30% water change and ensure ammonia and nitrite levels are 0ppm

5. **Adjust water temperature** - Raise to the higher end of your fish's preferred range to boost metabolism

6. **Create a hospital tank** - For severe cases, a shallow tank with gentle filtration can help fish rest and eat more easily

7. **Consider antibiotics** - If infection is suspected, medications like API General Cure ($15-20 at Petbarn, Pet Stock, or other Australian pet stores) may help

Worried about your fish's condition? Get a second opinion by uploading a photo to FinsDoc: https://finsdoc.com.au

Prevention

Feed small portions 2-3 times daily rather than one large feeding

Soak dry foods before feeding to prevent expansion in the stomach

Include high-fiber foods like peas, daphnia, and blanched vegetables in diet

Use sinking pellets instead of floating foods to prevent air gulping

Maintain stable water temperature and excellent water quality

Perform regular water changes (25% weekly)

Choose fish breeds less prone to swim bladder issues if you're a beginner

When to Worry

If your fish shows no improvement after 3-4 days of treatment, or if symptoms worsen with labored breathing, visible inflammation, or complete refusal to eat, you should consider more aggressive treatment options. Persistent swim bladder issues can lead to malnutrition as fish struggle to feed normally. In cases where fish cannot reach food at all, hand feeding with a pipette may be necessary. If you notice additional symptoms like red streaks, unusual spots, or cloudy eyes developing alongside swim bladder problems, this could indicate a more serious underlying condition requiring medication.

Common Questions

**Is swim bladder disease contagious?**

No, swim bladder disorder itself is not contagious. However, if the cause is bacterial or parasitic, these underlying infections could spread to other fish.

**Can swim bladder disease be cured completely?**

Yes, most cases can be resolved completely, especially those caused by constipation or overfeeding. Cases resulting from physical deformities may be manageable but not completely curable.

**How long does recovery take?**

Most fish show improvement within 3-5 days of treatment. Complete recovery typically takes 1-2 weeks for dietary-related cases.

**Should I euthanize a fish with swim bladder disease?**

Rarely. Most cases respond well to treatment. Consider euthanasia only if the fish cannot feed at all and shows no improvement after 2 weeks of dedicated treatment.

**Can swim bladder problems come back?**

Yes, especially if the underlying causes (like overfeeding or poor water quality) return. Maintaining good husbandry practices is essential for prevention.

Still unsure about your fish's condition? Join over 750 fish keepers who've used FinsDoc for accurate, instant diagnosis. Upload a photo now at https://finsdoc.com.au and get treatment recommendations tailored to your fish's specific condition.