Flagellates in gut?

[Auricom1]

Hi,

I am new to Discus keeping (8 weeks). Tho i do have 15+ years experience with sensitive 'oddball' fish. I read lots of books/forums, etc before i purchased any discus. My setup is spot on (I know this because i have a 'pair' forming). One of my discus, who was feeding/behaving normally has darkened in colour somewhat. Its markings are still clearly visible, and it still has 'colour', but it is obviously not happy given darkening of skin. It also spends much of its time facing the back wall of the aquarium. It does approach food, but then turns away and doesn't est. It has done this for 48 hours. The numerous books i have all point towards flagellates in gut, possibly 'Hexemita'. i am about to quarrentine said fishy so i can treat it. What i want to know is are there any 'over the counter' fishy medications readily available in the UK that will treat this? Or is a visit to the vets required?

Oh, forgot to mention, there is no sign of any stringy white faeces.


Thanks in advance,

Cheers,

Mike

 

[BODYDUB]

Just some info



Intestinal Flagellates:
Symptoms: Your discus may quit eating or spit out it's food. White, stringy, muscus-like feces will hang like a thread from the anus. He may be dark in color and stay in the back of the tank away from the other discus.
Treat with Metronidazole sold in pet stores as Hex-A-Mit or Metrozol. Can be purchased online from several sources. 400 - 500 mg per 10 gallons of water. Tank temperature 92 degrees +. Dose each day after a 50% water change for 3 to 5 days. Use 92 degree water for water changes. Feed sparingly of favorite foods. Keep water temperature elevated for a week after treatment ends. It may take a week or so for the discus to regain it's appetite. In severe cases of long standing you may need to dose every 8 hours for three days. May dose all fish in tank or remove affected fish to hospital tank. Should not hurt your biofilter.