Swim bladder disease is a common issue in aquarium fish, especially goldfish and bettas. It affects their ability to control buoyancy, leading to difficulty swimming, floating upside down, or sinking to the bottom. While serious cases may need veterinary help, mild swim bladder problems can often be managed at home with simple remedies.

Below are some practical methods you can try to help your fish recover.

Fasting the Fish

One of the most effective first steps is to stop feeding the fish for 24 to 48 hours. Overfeeding or eating food that swells inside the stomach can press against the swim bladder. This pressure affects balance and causes abnormal floating or sinking.

By giving your fish a short fasting period, you allow the digestive system to clear itself. This often reduces bloating and relieves pressure on the swim bladder. After fasting, you can reintroduce food in small amounts.

Feeding Shelled Peas

Peas are often called the go-to home remedy for mild swim bladder disease. The fiber helps clear digestive blockages that may be pressing on the swim bladder.

To prepare peas for your fish:

• Boil or microwave a pea until soft
• Remove the outer shell
• Mash the inside into small pieces
• Feed a small portion to your fish

This simple step can help improve digestion and restore buoyancy. Avoid giving peas daily, as they should only be a temporary treatment.

Checking Water Temperature

Cold water slows digestion in fish, which can worsen swim bladder problems. If the tank water is too cool, food may not break down properly, leading to bloating.

Check the water temperature with an aquarium thermometer. For tropical fish, maintain it between 24°C and 27°C. For goldfish, keep it around 20°C to 23°C. A stable temperature supports normal digestion and reduces stress on the swim bladder.

Adjusting the Diet

Dry flakes or pellets expand after being eaten, which can create gas and pressure in the digestive tract. This is one of the leading causes of mild swim bladder issues. Switching to alternatives can make a difference.

Consider feeding:

• Pre-soaked pellets that do not expand inside the stomach
• Gel-based foods that are easier to digest
• Occasional frozen or live foods for variety

A balanced diet prevents constipation and reduces the chances of swim bladder disease returning.

Reducing Tank Stress

Stress can make swim bladder problems worse. A stressed fish may eat irregularly, swim erratically, or show weakened immunity.

Simple steps to reduce stress include:

• Avoid tapping on the tank glass
• Keep lighting moderate, not too bright or too dim
• Provide hiding spaces with plants or decorations
• Maintain clean water with regular partial changes

A calm environment helps the fish recover more quickly.

Using Aquarium Salt (Optional)

Some aquarists use a small amount of aquarium salt to support recovery. Salt can reduce stress and improve gill function. However, it should be used cautiously and never as a long-term solution.

Dissolve the salt in a separate container before adding it to the tank. Follow proper dosing instructions depending on the fish species. This method is optional and should only be used for mild cases alongside other remedies.

When to Seek Help

If your fish shows no improvement after several days of trying these remedies, the issue may not be digestive. Internal infections, physical deformities, or injuries can also cause swim bladder disease. In such cases, veterinary guidance is recommended.

Conclusion

Mild swim bladder disease in fish is often linked to diet, digestion, or water conditions. Simple remedies such as fasting, feeding peas, maintaining proper temperature, and adjusting diet can help most cases. Supporting your fish with a stress-free environment also improves recovery. By addressing these factors, you give your fish the best chance to regain normal buoyancy and swim comfortably again.