During Ramadan fasting, headaches at the end of the day are relatively common, and there can be several reasons for this.

• One of the primary causes of headaches during Ramadan fasting is dehydration. Fasting can lead to a decrease in fluid intake, and if you don’t drink enough water during the non-fasting hours, you may become dehydrated. Dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, and other symptoms.
  
• Another reason for headaches during Ramadan fasting may be related to low blood sugar levels. When you fast, your body is unable to access its usual sources of glucose, which can cause a drop in blood sugar levels. This drop in blood sugar can lead to headaches, dizziness, and other symptoms. Fasting can cause changes in the levels of various hormones in the body, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can also affect the brain and lead to headaches.
  
• Moreover, changes in sleep patterns during Ramadan can also contribute to headaches. Many people stay up late during Ramadan and may wake up early for Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, which can disrupt the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns can trigger headaches.
  
• Finally, caffeine withdrawal can also cause headaches during Ramadan fasting. Many people consume caffeine regularly, and when they stop during the fasting period, it can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including headaches.

So, to prevent or reduce headaches during Ramadan fasting, it’s important to drink enough water during the non-fasting hours, maintain a healthy and balanced diet during the Suhoor and Iftar meals, and avoid caffeine withdrawal by gradually reducing caffeine intake before Ramadan starts. Additionally, practicing good sleep hygiene can also help prevent headaches during Ramadan.

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL HELP FOR HEADACHE?

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If you experience a headache during Ramadan fasting, you can typically manage it at home by taking some over-the-counter pain relievers, drinking plenty of fluids, and resting. However, there are some situations where it’s important to seek medical help for your headache.

You should seek medical help if:

Your headache is severe or persistent, despite taking pain relievers.

You experience other symptoms, such as a fever, confusion, or weakness.

Your headache is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as difficulty speaking or vision changes.

You have a history of migraines, and the headache feels different from your typical migraines.

You have a history of a serious medical condition, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical help promptly. Your healthcare provider can help determine the cause of your headache and recommend appropriate treatment.

Dr Ahmad Ali [email protected]

Dr Ahmad Ali is a Consultant orthopedic surgeon at District hospital Kargil.