HELP!!! I have no clue how to help!

[jerppyjerp]

My uncle has a rather large outdoor pond with "NO" uv clarifying lighting and quite a few koi. He has had a problem with one...:
Mark -

I have a koi that is seriously swollen around his back end evenly on both sides. There is no pop eye or scales popping out, no sores etc. and he swims normally and still eats.

Web sites seem to indicate intestinal blockage/constipation which is common in koi that eat commercial food. They suggest epsom salts, earthworms or vegetables. I don't know how to give him epsom salts but I've been giving them all romaine lettuce which was suggested by one of the stores.

Can you check your sources for an answer?

Thanks, Kirk
What do you guys think?

 

[sostoudt]

try giving it peas, thats supposed to help blockage in goldfish

 

[justonemoretank]

Epsom salt will reduce swelling. Add one level teaspoon per ten gallons of water. Peas will help "push" any blockages in the digestive tract through; elodea, a floating plant, would do the same.

Edit: This information was found on wetwebmedia.com. If you're not familiar with the site, I suggest you (or your uncle) check it out. It's a wonderful site. Scroll down to the bottom of the home page, and you'll find a google search tool. I searched "epsom salt koi" and found the above. Again, I read this site every day, and cannot stress how valuable it is.

 

[jerppyjerp]

Thank you guys very much...info has been passed to him and we are very greatful.

 

[Muske]

If constapation, stick with the lettuce.

If female, it maybe egg bound.