The abdomen is swollen - is it hard or tight like a fluid filled balloon?Her abdomen is definitely swollen. I felt inside and did not feel/touch an egg. Could it be even further up the tract? Is there some other illness that causes similar symptoms? I'm at a loss now. I thought for sure there would be a solid egg right near the vent.
Yes, there are other conditions that can look like egg binding - internal laying, ascites, peritonitis, etc.
With the respiratory distress - I would lean toward her having fluid in the abdomen if you don't feel an egg. Can you see if there are any yellowish fluid pockets underneath her?