Ramadhan (which can also be spelt ‘Ramadan’) is a key part of my Islamic faith and fasting, or sawm, is one of the five pillars. Fasting is a sign of worship and dedication, and during Ramadhan we fast from sunrise to sunset.

Managing my migraine during Ramadhan can be hard.  The change in routine can throw off the schedule I try to stick to that I know doesn’t aggravate my symptoms. Not being hydrated or eating during the day plays a part in the severity of my migraine attacks as well as the pain in my eyes and other symptoms.

Many people will ask me why I fast if my migraine symptoms are so bad, I will always say I see it as a test of my faith. I push through as fasting is a key part of my religion. I manage it by taking naps when and where I can, as well as getting fresh air during the day, which helps.

We wake up before dawn to close our fasts, and I will take my migraine medication then to be able to have some relief during the day. As taking medication orally would be considered breaking the fast, I would not take my medication during that time. Once the sun has set and I open my fast I will take my medication again then.

I understand if my body isn’t able to then I shouldn’t force it

There were a few Ramadhans where I did not take my medication in preparation, and I had to break my fast as I could no longer see, and the pain became unbearable. I felt very guilty breaking the fasts, but I understand if my body isn’t able to then I shouldn’t force it. Usually when you break some fasts you can keep them during the shorter times in winter to make up for it. This is what many Muslims do.

Each year Ramadhan comes forward by 10 days, so it will start 10 days earlier than the previous year. As this happens, Ramadhan will slowly start to be at different times in the year. The longer days were during summer. This year it’s early spring so we will close our fast about 5am and break it at 6pm. The seasons as well as the clock change does affect it. During the longer days of fasting, it was a lot harder as we were fasting nearly 18 hours altogether. Now that they’re a lot shorter, that makes it easier.

Many families will then gather to break their fasts together, inviting friends and family to join in. Eid-Ul-Fitr is a celebration for all Muslims around the world to have fun and enjoy themselves after a whole month of fasting, which is something to look forward to.

Taking breaks, getting fresh air and napping are helpful

My tips for anyone that may be struggling on how to manage their migraine and Ramadhan is to carry on with your day-to-day routine as much as you can. Also, try to incorporate more breaks, go for short walks to get some fresh air, and have a nap when you can. One thing that is always important to know is that you should not fast if you are unwell and doctors have advised against it. If you’re unsure of how best to manage your migraine during Ramadhan, it’s worth talking to your doctor who can advise you on what’s right for you.

You can read more about managing migraine during Ramadan here and if you need further information or support on any aspect of migraine, our helpline is available on 0808 802 0066 or you can get in touch online.