Used correctly (with the right size and flowrate), UV sterilizers are very
effective against ich. And unlike medications, they cause no stress to
fish.

So, would you recommend a UV sterilizer instead of medication for treating
ich?

Only if you don't mind spending the money. Ich can be treated with Rid-Ich or
Quick-Cure, for much less than a UV sterilizer costs.

Also raising the temperature perhaps?

I don't recommend that. (Ich can be treated by raising the temperature only,
but you have to raise it above 90F, and keep it there awhile. For many fish,
that is more stressful than medication. OTOH, some fish, like discus, will be
fine with that temperature.)

Raising the temperature a little is often recommended along with medication, in
order to speed the parasite through its life cycle. I don't think that's
necessary, though. It can be downright harmful. Speeding up the ich's life
cycle can make the disease worse before it gets better -- much worse. In
addition, warmer water has less oxygen in it. The fish are already suffering
respiratory distress, from ich infesting their gills, and from the medication
in the tank. The last thing they need is water with less oxygen in it.


Leigh

http://www.fortunecity.com/lavender/halloween/881/