Side Of Face Swollen

One of my girls has developed a strange swelling on one side of her little face. It goes around the side kind of like the photos I've seen of dropsy but just on the side of her head. She's active and wants to eat ok... but it looks mighty painful. I noticed a long white piece but that may just be a piece of scale.
Anyone ever seen this one before? I've had some strange things happen with the girls in the past few months including one inexplicable sudden death. The others in the tank are frisky and sassy as usual.
I've included a photo-- ok looks like 2 photos...and having a problem taking the 2nd one out!

bless her....dont know what that is...sorry xx

Hi there

That long 'string' looks very like an anchor worm. The painful-looking swelling would be a result of the anchor worm literally buried or anchored into the flesh, especially of the sensitive gill area. I suggest looking up pics of anchor worms online and comparing to your fish. If it is anchor worm you need to treat immediately. In ireland the best product would be Interpets Anti-Crustacean Parasite. Dont forget the whole tank must be treated. Best of luck

LEE

Could it be the beginning of dropsy or something like that? Maybe try a salt bath and just remember to keep the water really clean

Thanks everyone for responding. I think at this point it's anchor worm. I didn't get a good close up so couldn't show the little straggly piece of stuff hanging off of her. I got a few plants for them and I just read you can bring in eggs on plants.. Oh my. I bought the tank some Jungle Parasite Clear so hope this works.
Thanks again!

I would think maybe dropsy. But I honestly have no idea. My toad had dropsy and got all swollen too. She died a couple days ago.

One other thing. How do you give a fish a salt bath?

your could try some parisite medicine if you think its that serious.

I'm not sure if she's talking about an epsom salt bath or an aquarium salt bath
Sorry about your toad dear...

glug glug jugs..