The Saudi Rheumatology Society’s Patient Awareness Committee highlighted that fasting during Ramadan can be safe and beneficial for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, provided that medical guidance is followed and regular monitoring by healthcare professionals is maintained. Dr. Hanan Al-Rais, head of the society, explained that fasting may reduce inflammation around joints and improve comfort due to higher endorphin levels, helping to relieve pain and enhance overall quality of life.
Dr. Al-Rais also noted that light daily activities during Ramadan, including prayers and gentle movements, help improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness, supporting symptom management. She emphasized the importance of adjusting medication schedules to fit the Iftar and Suhoor periods and warned against stopping medications without medical advice to avoid flare-ups.
For patients with other autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or vasculitis affecting the kidneys, Dr. Al-Rais recommended a medical evaluation before fasting to ensure the disease is inactive and kidney function is stable, noting that fasting may not be suitable for some cases.
The society also provided practical advice: maintain balanced meals, drink plenty of water, avoid inflammatory foods such as sugars and saturated fats, engage in light physical activity like walking and stretching, organize meals for better digestion, ensure adequate sleep, adhere to medication schedules, and consult a doctor if new symptoms appear.
Dr. Al-Rais concluded that following a healthy lifestyle and medical guidance enables safe and comfortable fasting for rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune patients, with a reminder to consult a physician before Ramadan.
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