Symptoms & urgent help
Dropsy and raised scales
Dropsy describes fluid accumulation, often seen as swelling and raised scales. It is a sign of illness, not one specific disease.
Look at the whole fish
Record appetite, breathing, balance and whether swelling is symmetrical. Several different processes can interfere with fluid balance.
Arrange prompt veterinary help
A fish vet should assess the cause and whether treatment is possible. Do not squeeze the abdomen, puncture swelling or treat with a generic salt recipe.
Support without guesswork
Keep conditions stable and supply complete water results. If isolation is advised, it needs suitable water, filtration and oxygen rather than an unprepared bowl.
Sources & further reading
Original WakeyKoi wording, informed by the references below. Linked clinical resources explain the evidence and their scope; they have not reviewed or endorsed this website.
Related guides
Educational guidance cannot diagnose an individual fish. Breathing distress, severe injury or unexplained losses need prompt professional assessment.