As Ramadan approaches, many patients – especially those with chronic illnesses – begin to wonder:
Can I fast safely? How should I adjust my medications?
This is where the pivotal role of primary care physicians comes into play, as they serve as the first line of defense in the healthcare system. The family doctor is the closest to the patient and most capable of providing a comprehensive assessment of their health status and developing a safe fasting plan that reduces complications and maintains disease stability.
What Is the Role of Primary Care Before Ramadan?
Primary care is not limited to treating illnesses; it also includes prevention, health education, and continuous follow-up.
Specifically, before Ramadan, its role focuses on:
– Assessing the ability to fast safely
– Adjusting medication doses and timing
– Educating the patient about warning signs
– Developing a follow-up plan during the month
Assessing the Ability to Fast
The process begins with communication with the doctor weeks before Ramadan, where the doctor will:
– Measure blood pressure
– Check glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels
– Evaluate kidney function
– Review the patient’s medications
– Assess for chronic complications
Based on these assessments, the patient is classified as:
– Able to fast safely
– Able to fast with precautions and monitoring
– Advised not to fast for medical reasons
Adjusting Medications Before Ramadan
One of the most important roles of the family doctor is to reorganize the treatment plan, such as:
– Switching some medications to long-acting formulations
– Adjusting medication timing between Iftar and Suhoor
– Reducing doses that may cause hypoglycemia
– Explaining how to use insulin during Ramadan
Any adjustments must be supervised by a healthcare professional to avoid complications.
Patient Health Education
Awareness is a fundamental part of primary care and includes:
– Signs of hypoglycemia (sweating, dizziness, shivering)
– Signs of hyperglycemia
– Symptoms of dehydration
– When to break the fast immediately
– The importance of drinking adequate water
– Avoiding overeating rich foods
Follow-Up of Patients with Chronic Diseases
– Diabetic Patients: Need a clear plan for blood sugar measurement during fasting; they may be asked to check their blood sugar multiple times a day.
– Hypertensive Patients: Adjust medication schedules and monitor blood pressure regularly.
– Heart Patients: Assess stability before permitting fasting.
– Kidney Patients: Carefully evaluate their condition to prevent dehydration complications.
The Role of Primary Care During Ramadan
The role does not end at the start of the month. It includes:
– Monitoring unstable cases
– Managing emergency cases like fainting or dehydration
– Re-evaluating patients if symptoms appear
– Providing quick consultations to modify treatment plans
When Is Fasting Not Recommended?
The doctor may advise against fasting in cases such as:
– Uncontrolled blood sugar
– Advanced kidney failure
– Unstable angina
– High-risk pregnancies
– Severe illnesses or infections
The decision always depends on an individual assessment of each case.
The Importance of Early Medical Communication
Contact with a primary care physician 4–6 weeks before Ramadan provides the patient with an opportunity:
– To safely modify the treatment plan
– To test new doses
– To avoid emergencies during the month
– To fast comfortably and confidently
Summary
Communication with a primary care doctor plays a crucial role in ensuring safe fasting, especially for patients with chronic diseases.
Early assessment, medication adjustment, and health education are the main pillars to reduce complications.
Fasting is a great act of worship, but maintaining health is a priority. Early medical consultation is the way to a safe and balanced fast.
Scientific References:
1. World Health Organization.
Primary health care overview – Updated 2023.
2. International Diabetes Federation.
Diabetes and Ramadan Practical Guidelines – 2023 update.
3. American Diabetes Association.
Standards of Care in Diabetes – 2024.
4. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.
Management of chronic diseases in primary care – Updated 2023.
5. British Islamic Medical Association.
Ramadan Health Guide – 2023 edition.
