ABU DHABI // Health professionals say they see more patients suffering from kidney stone pains during the holy month.
People with pre-existing kidney stones who are fasting should consult doctors beforehand, but many ignore this advice.
Dr Adil Obeid, a nephrologist at Sobeh’s Vascular and Medical Centre in Dubai Healthcare City, said he had been inundated with kidney stone cases this year.
“I think it is mandatory to consult your doctor before fasting if you have had kidney stones in the past,” said Dr Obeid. “Fasting can lead to the formation of new stones in those who have a tendency to develop them.
“Whether people can fast depends on where the stone is and if it is causing an obstruction. We advise some people not to fast but the majority don’t even bother to come for a check-up.”
He said those who had suffered the severe colic of kidney pain should consult their doctor.
It is possible to fast with kidney stones, but only if they are non-obstructive, not in the ureter and do not cause pain.
Dr Manaf Al Hashimi, a consultant urologist at Burjeel Hospital, also warned people to have a kidney stone check-up.
Dr Al Hashimi advised those with stones to drink at least 3 litres of fluid a day, and eat less protein-rich and salty foods outside of fasting hours.
Dr Agatha Moniz, a gynaecologist at Medcare in Dubai, recommended staying out of the sun.
“Avoid sweating and don’t exercise when you are fasting, as this will dehydrate you,” she said.
“A labourer who has a kidney stone is more likely to have pain in Ramadan than a person working in air-conditioning.”
Muscle degeneration that comes with fasting can also exacerbate stones. Dr Moniz said eating simple and easily digested food could ease the symptoms.
Dr Osama Jaber, of Uro Diagnostic Clinic in Dubai Healthcare City, blamed the lack of water at iftars for the increase in kidney stone complaints during Ramadan.
“People just don’t think drinking water is important and choose coffee, juices or fizzy drinks instead,” said Dr Jaber.
arizvi2@thenational.ae
