32 yo Jap. Fire belly newt bloated and sick

[scottsarab]

Okay, let me first off start by saying, I’m no expert. What I’ve learned over the past few days is that it’s probably a damn near miracle that my newt has lived to be 32. My mom bought her for me at WALMART on my last day of kindergarten and I’ll be 38 this week... so don’t feel the need to correct all my mistakes, clearly something went right because here we are.....
Anyways, my newt (Nancy) appeared very bloated a few days ago and seemed in distress. Her back legs aren’t working properly and we have found her several times on her back in her tank. I have since removed her and placed her in a container in the refrigerator with one of her rocks and an artificial plant so she can have something to prop herself on to get breaths.
I have emailed a nearby vet that states they treat exotics, but I’m in rural PA so I’m not hopeful that we’ll have a knowledgeable vet. What would be beneficial to try? Salt baths? Antibiotic treatments (have read about people using several of the API fish products)? Obviously there’s no way to be certain what is wrong. It could certainly be kidney failure at her age.
I do actually have a BS in Marine Biology but obviously amphibians are not something I’ve studied since they are freshwater....
Any and all suggestions would be helpful.

 

[AuSu]

Hi!
Congratulations for having her such a long time! Putting her in the refridgerator is good giving her time to heal. I have no ideas myself how to treat her but I wanted to send you this link of illnesses and treatments in case you haven't found it yet. Maybe you can find some help there.

Caudata Culture Articles - Illness Part 1

I hope for the best!