PLEASE HELP! multiple problems/no answers

[jokir]

I am having some serious issues with my 55-gal tank! First, my festivum has a red bulge that looks like it is trying to push out of it's anus. I'm not certain but I don't believe it is camallanus. Second, my goby all of a sudden appears to have dropsy... maybe. He is extremely bloated and listless, but his scales do not appear to be sticking out. Next, my red-headed severum is flashing and twitching like he has ick but there are no other indicators of ick on him or any of the other fish. The severum has also been extremely listless and just seems sick. Another thing is that i have begun to notice a build-up of what i believe is "white algae" but I cannot seem to get a straight answer about what it actually looks like. I've also heard recently about hydra, but again I cannot get an answer as to what it looks like when it's not under a microscope. I should also let you know that I have a small banded puffer, a banjo catfish, and a long-fin albino pleco in the tank as well. I have added aquarium salt and gradually raised the temp. to 84 degrees so far. I purchased "Jungle" brand Parasite Clear tabs but have yet to use them. I do a 20% h20 change every 2 weeks and haven't done anything different recently; all of these things have literally happened over the past 2 days and I'm at a loss. Can anyone help me figure these things out? Please?

[Moejoe]

Stop with the salt....Do not add any more!............Do you test for pH, ammonia, and nitrate?............I'm willing to bet that you have high ammonia readings which is stressing the fish.

[Bernie]

Yes! I agree. It definitely sounds like a water quality problem.

How long has the tank been set up and are you cycling the tank? I would start by doing more frequent partial water changes...once a week may be needed.