Answer to frequently asked questions

Q. Can a person fast if they are getting a blood transfusion in hospital?
No. A person receiving a blood transfusion is advised not to fast on medical grounds. They may fast on the days when no transfusions are required.
Q. Can I fast while I have dialysis?
Peritoneal dialysis requires the daily usage of fluid bags in the abdomen and such patients are advised not to fast.
Haemodialysis is performed about two to three times a week and results in significant shifts of fluids and salts within the body. Such patients are also advised not to fast.
Q. I get severe migraines when I skip meals and they get worse when I fast. Should I fast at all?
Those with uncontrolled migraines are advised not to fast. However, adequate control of migraines is possible for most people with medication and alterations to lifestyle and hence such avenues should be exhausted prior to deciding not to fast. Please consult a doctor for further advice on better control of your migraines.
Q. Could dehydration become so severe that one has to break the fast?
Yes. Harmful levels of water loss could occur if the person was poorly hydrated before commencing the fast and/or could be made worse by activities during the day and weather conditions. If one produces very little or no urine, feels disorientated and confused or faints due to dehydration, the fast should be broken in order to rehydrate oneself.
Islam does not require that you harm yourself in fulfilling the fast. If a fast is broken, it will need to be compensated for by fasting at a later date.

Source: National Health Service, UK