The most common major problem indicated by a breathing problem is usually a gill problem in your fish. Fish gill problems can come in the form of parasites, bacterial or fungal infections, ich or white spot disease, or injury. Early diagnosis and treatment is important, as any can progress to greater seriousness, and can be fatal to your fish.

Since gill problems in your fish cover a wide range it can be difficult to easily diagnose which specific problem your fish has without a examining a sample gill scrape under a microscope. Care should be used for this procedure, so as not to further injure your fish.

Some other signs of fish gill problems include reddening or inflammation, raised scales, open wounds, raised scales, lesions, or other discoloration. The type of problem can be indicated by which symptom is encountered.

Since there other types of fish problems that may be indicated by your fish having a breathing problem, the type of treatment(s) will also vary. One of the main parts of any treatment is treating the cause of the problem also. For instance, poor water quality can cause things such as bacteria and parasites to flourish. This also can cause minor irritation. Therefore, it is important that your fish has a healthy environment to begin with, else any fish gill problems will reoccur.

There are many diagnostic charts and books, that will help recognize and treat fish breathing problems, including gill problems. Other owners and experts on fish also may be of some help. As with many symptoms, fish breathing problems could be a sign of a more serious problem in your fish. The important thing that will help prevent problems in your fish, including breathing problems is to maintain a favorable enviroment for your fish.