QA-ID-0008
QUESTION
I get migraines where I’m sick like vomiting and bad headaches if I don’t eat for a long time so I do still have to fast or am I excused?
ANSWER
﷽
Illnesses are an excuse to not fast, as mentioned in the Qur’ān. However, the requirement is that it be severe and not just mild.
If there is an overwhelming assumption (zann ghalib) that fasting will make the illness more severe, or delay the healing of an illness or a person who is well fears becoming seriously unwell then a person can make up the fasts at another time.
Overwhelming assumption is established using one of the following:
- the apparent signs of such harm are present.
- personal experience.
- the advice of a qualified and experienced doctor who is an upright Muslim. If there is no upright Muslim doctor, then any Muslim doctor’s opinion, but a person must be satisfied that his opinion is correct and sound after giving it proper thought. The opinion of a non Muslim doctor is not valid to give up fasting or break the fast.
Be aware that if the headaches and feeling sick are mild and bearable while fasting, you are not permitted to miss the fast. It must be severe headaches and sickness to the point where it is difficult to bear and keep the fast.
You have to be honest with yourself and not take this lightly. Missing the fast of Ramadan without a valid reason is a major sin. Also know that Allah is aware of your intentions and the reality.
As a practical step, I advise you to fast and then make an informed decision and not simply assume severe difficulty.
والله تعالى أعلم
And Allāh Knows Best
Muhammad Kalim Misbahi
