Fatwa ID: 05516

Answered by: Mufti Irfan Ali

Question

Assalaamu Alaykum, I have a sinus problem known as sinusitis, and this causes a lot of pain to the right side of my face since the 2nd of May. Dehydration makes this condition and pain very worse hence fasting is very difficult for me. Also there I also have a nasal dripping problem that I cannot control.

Will it be Halal for me to break my fast because of how great this pain is?

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Answer:

The matter of fasting is quite clearly outlined in Islam as being Fard, meaning it is compulsory to fast. The only time one will be exempt from fasting shall be if a person has a valid reason Islam considers valid for the fast to be left out.

Sinusitis is a condition in which the sinus swells after an infection has occurred, which can be treated without any complications.

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sinusitis-sinus-infection/

Based on the above information if one has such a condition in which the pain is bearable one should not forsake the fast, however, if strongly advised by a medical professional to forsake the fast one can consider it. Taking into consideration the opinion of a Muslim, practising doctor.

The excessive fluid coming from the nasal will not nullify the fast, it is also permissible to take nasal drops or use nasal sprays as these will not nullify the fast, these options could be utilised prior to terminating the fast.

(Kitabul Nawazil v.6 p.361 Darul Ishat)

Only Allah knows best

Written by Mufti Irfan Ali

Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham