Ramadan and Health: Fasting Without Endangering Yourself

Every year, millions of Algerians fast during the month of Ramadan. For most people the fast goes smoothly. But for those living with a chronic disease or on daily treatment, it needs preparing — and that preparation starts at the doctor's.

Before Ramadan: the consultation that changes everything

If you have diabetes, hypertension or kidney disease, are pregnant or on long-term treatment, see your doctor a few weeks before the month begins. They will assess whether fasting is compatible with your condition and, above all, adapt the timing and doses of your medication. Never reschedule a treatment on your own: a medicine taken at the wrong time can lose its effect — or become dangerous. Consider booking that consultation online before the rush of the last days of Sha'ban.

Eating well between iftar and s'hour

• Break the fast gradually: dates and water, then the chorba a few minutes later — the stomach is coming out of long hours of rest.
• Avoid too much fried food (bourek, very fatty dishes), which brings heaviness and heartburn.
• Do not skip s'hour: it is what carries you to maghreb. Favour slow-digesting foods and drink enough.
• Hydrate in small amounts throughout the evening rather than all at once.

Signs that require breaking the fast

Religion itself exempts the sick person whose condition demands it. Break the fast and seek care quickly in case of: faintness with sweating and shaking (hypoglycemia), intense thirst with confusion, high fever, chest pain or difficulty breathing. In an emergency, call the SAMU (16) or the Protection civile (14).

During the month: keep the link with your doctor

Many practices adapt their hours during Ramadan. If a doubt arises — unstable blood sugar, rising blood pressure, an unusual side effect — a teleconsultation gets you medical advice without waiting for the month to end.

On daily treatment with Ramadan approaching? Book an appointment with your doctor now: a few minutes of consultation beat a month of doubts.