Khaberni - During Ramadan, many kidney patients ask, "Is fasting safe for my health condition?" Although fasting has significant spiritual benefits, its health impact varies from person to person, especially among those with chronic diseases that affect fluid balance and organ functions.
According to specialists, the kidneys are among the organs most affected by fluid deficiency, as their function primarily depends on proper hydration to maintain salt balance and eliminate waste. Dehydration can lead to increased creatinine levels in the blood, higher potassium concentrations, and potential blood pressure drops or imbalances, exposing some patients to complications that can be serious if not monitored carefully.
In this context, Dr. Zafer Husami, a kidney disease specialist at Medclinic Middle East in Dubai, states that the decision for kidney patients to fast should be based on an accurate medical assessment of the disease stage and kidney function stability.
He emphasizes the importance of drinking adequate amounts of water between Iftar and Suhoor to avoid dehydration, along with reviewing medications – particularly blood pressure medications, diuretics, and diabetes medications – as there may be a need to adjust doses or timing.
Dr. Husami also mentions that patients with early stages of renal failure might be able to fast under medical supervision if their condition is stable, whereas patients in advanced stages or those undergoing dialysis are generally advised not to fast due to elevated risk levels.
Dr. Husami noted that kidney patients with diabetes need a precise evaluation of their blood sugar control. Fasting is prohibited if hypoglycemia repeats, blood sugar levels are unstable, or there are advanced complications. He also stressed the importance of monitoring blood sugar levels during fasting hours, recommending immediate breaking of the fast if the level falls below 70 mg/dL or rises above 300 mg/dL or if clear symptoms appear.
Kidney Disease Stages
According to the doctor, patients in the early stages of renal failure (stages one to three) may fast under medical supervision if their condition is stable. Patients in stages four and five or those undergoing dialysis are usually advised not to fast due to high risks.
Kidney Transplant and Kidney Stones
Some kidney transplant patients might be allowed to fast a year after the surgery, provided that their function is stable and there are no complications, and they should stop immediately if there is pain or reduced urine output. Patients with active stones or urinary tract blockages are generally advised against fasting.
Urinary Tract Infections and Blood Pressure
Some patients with mild urinary tract infections can fast as long as they adhere to their treatment and drink fluids at night, while complicated cases or kidney infections prohibit fasting. Stable blood pressure patients might be able to fast under medical supervision, while unstable cases require individual assessment.
According to the doctor, the fundamental principle is that maintaining health is a priority, and consulting a doctor before beginning fasting is a necessary step to balance spiritual desires and medical safety needs.
