Although dropsy can be classified as a disease it is much rather a symptom than a disease. Dropsy can have many causes, many of which are untreatable. The causes of this can be from a internal tumor, bacterial infection, and/or internal infection. Although there is treatment available which claim they can rid the disease, successful treatment is very unlikely as Dropsy is usually the outcome of a improper birth. The over use of salt (NaCl), prolonged exposure to poor water conditions, and improper diet, are all major causes that lead to this parasitic infection.
Occurrence: Medium. Deadly? Yes. Contagious? No. Treatment Available? Yes/No. Fish Assist Problem Code: 5 (Serious)
Signs:
Physical:
Bloated Appearance
Scales Stick out
Appears pregnant
Usually followed by paleness in color
Difficulty swimming
Behavioral:
Lethargy
Lack of appetite
Signs of constituency
Most of the time the fish acts normal
Actions:
Unfortunately, Dropsy most likely will be fatal early on, however, there have been cases where the fish can live a long, normal life. This disease is internal and can usually not be treated. Sometimes, isolating the fish and adding a small amount of salt to the water can assist in the recovery of this illness, but Fish Assist advises against doing this.