Beta Not Floating

Question
I have a lovely red beta which came down with an illness some time ago: I suspect the swim bladder, as the poor creature seems unable to float, and has to use its small fins like made to get to the top for feeding.  It has been going on long enough now that it seems to be finding ways to compensate; propping itself up on rocks and plant tops.  When it doesn't seem to care, it sometimes just flops on its side for a while.

On advice from another site, I have tried feeding mashed pea, which the fist readily eats, and it seems there is a little improvement.  Alas, not for long.  The site suggested the epsom salt bath, too, but another site indicates this treatment is only for dropsy.

I expect each day I'll find the little critter dead, but it keeps on!  What do you think?

Answer
Hi Tim,
When constipation leads to Swim Bladder, and the pea does not work, you will have to treat him with an antibiotic as quickly as possible.  "Kanamycin" is very good for Swim Bladder Disease. but hard to find.  If you cannot find it, buy Tetracycline, or Furan 2.  Follow the directions on the package, and be careful not to overdose.
Consitpation is caused my poor diet, and overfeeding.  Vary his diet, Betta Pellets, Betta flakes, Daphnia, Bloodworms, Glassworms, Mealworms, and Plankton flakes.  The more you vary, the healthier he will be.  Give him one pea a week, and on the day you give him the pea, give him nothing else to eat.  Feed him two or three times a day in small amounts.  Example:  2 pellets for one meal or 2 flakes for one meal etc.  We must always remember that the Betta's tummy is the size of his eye.  For now, he must waste.  Feed him the pea again, and nothing else for a day.  Treat him with the antibiotics, and hopefully your little friend will pull through.
Lynda