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My betta's eyes are looking super swollen, like they're popping out. Is this Popeye disease? Tank's a 5-gallon, heated to 78°F, filtered. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Been feeding pellets and occasional bloodworms. What should I do?

Yep, sounds like Popeye. It's usually caused by bacterial infections or poor water quality. Since your params are fine, it's likely bacterial. Start with a 50% water change and add aquarium salt (1 tsp per gallon). Keep the water super clean, and consider an antibiotic like Kanaplex if it doesn't improve in a few days.

ocean4 wrote: ↑Sat Jul 26, 2025 10:14 pm My betta's eyes are looking super swollen, like they're popping out. Is this Popeye disease? Tank's a 5-gallon, heated to 78°F, filtered. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Been feeding pellets and occasional bloodworms. What should I do?

I'd also check for any sharp decor. Sometimes physical injury can cause swelling. If you find anything rough, sand it down or remove it.

Man, that sucks. Popeye's a pain but fixable. Salt's a good start, like Scalekeeper1 said. Also, bump the temp to 80°F if your heater can handle it. Helps their immune system. And maybe cut back on the bloodworms for a bit, stick to pellets to keep the water cleaner.

How long has the swelling been going on? If it's recent, you might catch it early. I've had success with Maracyn-Two for bacterial Popeye. Just follow the dosage carefully. Also, keep the lights low to reduce stress. Bettas heal better when they're chill.

I agree with the salt and water changes. Had a betta with Popeye last year, and daily 25% changes plus salt cleared it up in about a week. Just watch for any signs of worsening, like lethargy or loss of appetite.

Make sure the salt dissolves fully before adding it to the tank. Undissolved grains can irritate their skin. And if you're using meds, remove any carbon from the filter first. It'll just soak up the meds and make 'em useless.

Thanks, everyone. Gonna start with the salt and water changes today. Appreciate the help!

Good luck! Keep us posted on how your fish is doing.

Yeah, hope it works out. Popeye's scary but usually treatable.