Possibly Sick Crowntail Betta

Question
My Crowntail Betta is not acting like it's 'normal self'.I just changed water last night,and I always wash stones really good.I clean bowl every 3 or 4 days.Usually it eats all it's food right away,but did NOT touch food from last night or fresh food I gave it this morning or touched it since-it's now 5:30 p.m.It swims(barely swimming-more like floats)to top every 5 minutes or so but does not touch the food.Also,it stays near the top maybe a second then seems to 'fall' to the bottom.It's like it can't stay at the top at all and can't swim to the bottom-it just 'falls' to the bottom.It's just been laying there with fins that are 'droopy'.They are always,until today,wide open and beautiful.I read when fish aren't acting right you can add some aquarium salt but to never add iodized salt.I have un-iodized salt...could I add that,and if so,how much? My Betta is in a 8" high vase.What do you suggest might be wrong with Molly,and any suggestions what I can do? I'm really worried.I appreciate any feedback you may have for me.Thank you for your time and help.

Answer
Hi Debra,
Your betta has swim bladder disease.  The reason why he cant stay up or stay down and just "falls" is because of his unbalanced equalibrium.  

What might have caused it is a virus, bacteria, constipation, or poor nutrition.  9 times out of 10 it is because of constipation.  Are you overfeeding her?  I feed my fish smushed thawed/boiled peas weekly to provide veggies to prevent this very diagnosis.    

Aquarium salt and iodized or un-iodized salt are 2 different kinds of salt.  The reason why people use aquarium salt is because it releases stress by promoting mucus membranes to regrow on scales and the salt itself releases electrolytes in the water.

If you change the water every 3-4 days, then I dont believe it is the water quality.  Try feeding her mushed boiled peas.  Mush the peas between your fingers into a paste or very small pieces.  If that doesnt work try to feed her medicated fish food.  The hardest problem now will be trying to feed her.

My area of expertise is not in fish diseases, but if it were my fish, it is what I would do. Sorry I cant be of further help.
-Matt-