Question:
As-Salam Alaykum,
Dearest Scholar,
I have been diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder for which I take SSRIs for medication. The side effect for this medication is dry mouth. I generally need to drink a sip of water every 15 mins or I begin to feel uncomfortable. When I’ve attempted fasting Ramadan in the past I found the thirst unbearable. Because of this I have missed many holy Ramadan fast days which I have not made up for the past 3 years (since I converted to Islam). Does my above condition exempt me from fasting? Can I pay to feed the poor instead?
Thank you for your time. May Allah send His blessings upon you and your family.
Answer:
wa `alaykum salam,
You are unable to fast due to a disabling disease. Therefore, you shall compensate for not fasting by feeding a poor person for every day of fasting you have missed.
Imam Senad Agic, Ph.D.
Head Imam (IABNA)
The Islamic Association of Bosniaks in North America
www.mesihat.com
