Fasting May Trigger Migraines

The increase in the duration of fasting and dehydration can lead to various pains in the body. If a person experiences attacks of pain no more than once or twice a month, and these pains can be alleviated without medication, they can maintain their fast by properly following the sahur and iftar meals, according to Anadolu Health Center Neurology Department Director Prof. Dr. Yaşar Kütükçü. He stated, “However, for individuals with chronic pain like migraines, fasting can trigger this pain. As long as you don’t encounter very severe pain like a migraine, it is possible to manage these pains without breaking your fast.”

Prof. Dr. Yaşar Kütükçü noted that some patients with migraine-like pain may be able to fast, provided they continue their preventive treatment. “For example, a patient who has 2-3 migraine attacks a month can adjust their medication schedule according to Ramadan and continue fasting, as the number of attacks is low. Patients with migraines should pay special attention to fasting, as hunger is a condition that triggers migraine attacks 100%. Those who frequently experience attacks and have very severe ones can sense the onset of an attack and take their medication in advance. However, since they cannot take their medication while fasting, there is a higher likelihood that these individuals will experience very severe attacks. This situation varies from person to person, so individuals should definitely test themselves. Those who experience severe pain should take it seriously and not be insistent on fasting, as fasting can seriously disrupt balance in patients with pain.”

Applying Ice or Cold on the Head Reduces Attack Severity

Prof. Dr. Yaşar Kütükçü mentioned that individuals who can sleep adequately even if their sleep patterns are disrupted, and can use their medications regularly and appropriately for fasting, can maintain their fast. “These individuals may experience mild to moderate headaches throughout Ramadan. However, these pains can be alleviated with breathing or relaxation exercises. Breathing exercises can be performed similarly to those used during labor pains. While trying to control the pain yourself, ensuring that the body receives good oxygen allows for more oxygen to be delivered to the tissues,” he explained.

Prof. Dr. Kütükçü shared that exercises in which individuals relax their muscles can be very beneficial. “It is very helpful to perform these exercises in a quiet, calm environment, preferably accompanied by music that you enjoy. For distraction exercises, you can engage in another activity, listen to music, or involve yourself in anything that relaxes you. If possible, you can lie down in a dim and quiet space. You can also go outside for fresh air. Additionally, squeezing your head with a scarf or cloth, or applying ice or cold to your head during a migraine attack, can be quite helpful in reducing the severity of the attack,” he stated.

Last Updated Date: 20 February 2024

Publication Date: 20 February 2024