Persistent popeye

[ThRoewer]

I have a Starcki damsel (one of 3 I have in that QT) that developed popeye on one of its eyes a couple of weeks ago.

It seems that there is gas under the eye.

The fish is otherwise healthy and active.

I already treated the tank 3 times with Epsom salt but it didn't really help.

Does anyone have another promising treatment option?

 

[HumbleFish]

For actual eye infections, erythromycin is the only ABX which has ever worked for me. Supposedly minocycline works on gram - eye infections.

If the gas bubble was in a better spot you could try lancing the air out using a 30 gauge insulin syringe.

 

[ThRoewer]

For actual eye infections, erythromycin is the only ABX which has ever worked for me. Supposedly minocycline works on gram - eye infections.

If the gas bubble was in a better spot you could try lancing the air out using a 30 gauge insulin syringe.

Do you use the erythromycin gel for direct application?

 

[HumbleFish]

Do you use the erythromycin gel for direct application?

I've done it both ways. Topical application is obviously more involved. Dosing the water usually works, just takes longer (10-14 days).

 

[ThRoewer]

Since there are more fish in the tank topical application might be better. No need to treat everyone. Also, it seems the topical ointment is easier to get.

 

[jjoos99]

I believe my moorish idol has a gas bubble underneith each eye. It looks just like an air bubble the is at the top of the eye like an eye lid. Is this from an infection? should I treat with erythromycin or just let it run its course? It is eating well but does have some fin damage and an abrasion on its side. Will epson salts help? I see to treat with 1 teaspoon per 5 gallon, do I treat the entire tank and for how long?
thanks
jeff

 

[HumbleFish]

[MENTION=86694]jjoos99[/MENTION] Can you provide some clearer photos?

 

[jjoos99]

Here he is today. If anything the bubble on the other eye has gotten bigger. I bought some erythromycin on the way home so I can treat with that if that is what you suggest.
thanks a lot
Jeff

 

[jjoos99]

Is it possible that a fish could have gotten the air issue from the flight from California to Ohio? I checked in on the fish several hours later tonight after I took the picture and the bubbles were about half the size. I watched the fish for a bit and it twitched quickly and I saw an air bubble float to the surface from the fish. I think the membrane couldnt expand any more and might have burst open a bit and relieved some of the air.
Jeff

 

[HumbleFish]

The change in air pressure could have caused what is commonly referred to as "Gas Bubble Disease": https://www.advancedaquarist.com/2014/8/fish

 

[ThRoewer]

Well, my Starcki got better without medication.

 

[ThRoewer]

The change in air pressure could have caused what is commonly referred to as "Gas Bubble Disease": https://www.advancedaquarist.com/2014/8/fish

That "Gas Bubble Disease" should however not be confused with the "Gas Bubble Disease" you often encounter with seahorses and pipefish.

 

[jjoos99]

I did see gas bubble disease for horses, seems they have a treatment for them. Today the bubbles seem to have gone behind the eyes, both are bulging out quite a bit. Still only feeding well and keeping water clean. Not sure that antibiotics would help.
Thanks
Jeff

 

[ThRoewer]

Have you tried epsom salt?

 

[jjoos99]

No, I was having trouble finding details on it. Found dosage but can it be used in hypo, ok for all the fish in tank? For how long?
Jeff

 

[HumbleFish]

No, I was having trouble finding details on it. Found dosage but can it be used in hypo, ok for all the fish in tank? For how long?
Jeff

1 tablespoon per 5 gallons. Repeat again in 48 hours.