Khaberni - The Institute's bulletin today lists important precautions for cardiovascular patients to observe during fasting.
The Institute's bulletin details the effect of fasting on the cardiovascular system, the categories of heart patients needing precise evaluation, general precautions for heart patients during fasting, warning signs that necessitate breaking the fast immediately, as well as situations where fasting is not advised, and the role of vital awareness programs before fasting.
Ramadan provides an important spiritual and health opportunity for Muslims around the world, although fasting may pose a challenge for some patients, especially those with cardiovascular diseases. The impact of fasting depends on the general health condition of the patient, the type of heart condition, its stability, and adherence to medications and medical instructions. Therefore, prior medical evaluation and setting an appropriate treatment plan before Ramadan are essential to ensure a safe fast.
** The effect of fasting on the cardiovascular system
Fasting means abstaining from food and drink for long hours, which may extend from 12 to more than 16 hours. This abstinence can lead to:
- Decrease in body fluids.
- Changes in blood pressure.
- Changes in blood salt levels.
- Adjusting medication times.
In stable health patients, fasting generally does not pose a significant risk if it is well-regulated. However, in unstable or advanced heart disease patients, fasting may lead to serious complications.
** Categories of heart patients requiring precise evaluation
1 - High blood pressure patients.
Stable high blood pressure patients can often fast safely with:
- Adjusting medication times to be taken at iftar and suhoor.
- Regularly monitoring blood pressure.
- Avoiding excessive intake of salt and fatty foods at iftar.
However, patients suffering from uncontrolled hypertension or severe fluctuations in pressure are advised to reassess their condition before deciding to fast.
2 - Patients with coronary artery disease
Patients suffering from stable angina can fast provided that:
- They adhere to their medication.
- They avoid severe physical exertion during the day.
- They consult a doctor to adjust doses.
However, patients with unstable angina or those who have recently suffered a heart attack (within the last weeks or months) are generally advised against fasting until their condition stabilizes.
3 - Heart failure patients
Heart failure is a condition significantly affected by changes in fluid balance. Fasting may lead to:
- Dehydration.
- Decreased blood pressure.
- Deterioration in heart function.
Patients with mild, stable heart failure might be allowed to fast under strict medical supervision. In cases of advanced or unstable heart failure, fasting is often discouraged to preserve safety.
4 - Patients with rhythm disorders
Some stable rhythm disorders are not affected by fasting if medications are adhered to. However:
- Irregular medication intake.
- Salt disturbances due to dehydration.
May exacerbate the problem. Therefore, it is essential to consult a physician before Ramadan to adjust doses.
** General precautions for heart patients during fasting
First: Medical evaluation before Ramadan
It is preferable to visit the doctor 4–6 weeks before Ramadan to:
- Determine whether fasting is safe or not.
Second: Medication regulation
One of the key challenges during Ramadan is adjusting medication times. Therefore, it is vital:
- Not to stop any medication without consulting a doctor.
- To distribute doses between iftar and suhoor.
- To be cautious with diuretic medications, as they can increase the risk of dehydration.
Third: Attention to fluids
It's recommended to drink adequate amounts of water between iftar and suhoor, especially:
- Avoiding caffeine-rich beverages.
- Spreading water intake over spaced periods.
- Not relying on large quantities in a single go.
Fourth: A healthy diet
Suddenly breaking the fast on fatty meals may cause:
- A sudden rise in blood pressure.
- Increased strain on the heart.
- Digestive disturbances.
Therefore, it is advised to:
- Start with dates and water in moderation.
- Have a balanced meal including vegetables and protein.
- Reduce saturated fats and fried foods.
- Limit salt, especially for hypertension and heart failure patients.
Fifth: Avoiding excessive effort
It's essential to avoid:
- High heat exposure for long periods.
- Engaging in strenuous physical activities during the fast.
- Physically demanding tasks during daylight hours.
Engaging in light physical activity after iftar, such as walking for 20–30 minutes, is possible.
** Warning signs requiring immediate breaking of the fast
Heart patients should break their fast immediately and seek medical assistance if they experience:
- Chest pain.
- Severe shortness of breath.
- Severe dizziness or fainting.
- Severe and irregular palpitations.
- Sudden swelling in the legs or rapid weight gain (a sign of fluid retention).
Health takes precedence over fasting, and Islamic law permits breaking the fast if fasting causes harm to the patient.
** Situations where fasting is not recommended
- Recent heart attack.
- Advanced or unstable heart failure.
- Unstable angina.
- Severe uncontrolled hypertension.
- Need for multiple dose medications that cannot be adjusted.
** Role of health awareness
It is necessary to intensify awareness programs before Ramadan to explain:
- Risks of unsafe fasting.
- The importance of adherence to treatment.
- How to follow a healthy lifestyle during the holy month.
It's also preferable to have clinics dedicated to pre-Ramadan consultations for chronic disease patients.
