Surgery · 5 min read
Published · Updated
Editorial note: This article was prepared for this website from the sources listed below. Unless a named clinical reviewer is shown, it has not been attributed to or clinically reviewed by an individual KPMC clinician.
Fasting and thyroid care
This page summarises a KPMC article published on 20 March 2024 and attributed to Dr Yahya Mohd Aripin, Perunding Pakar Bedah Am. It has been reorganised for easier reading; the original article is listed in the sources below. The official insight says thyroid investigation and treatment generally continue during Ramadan, but individual fitness to fast should be discussed with the treating doctor.
Tests and medicine timing
The official article states that blood tests, ultrasound and biopsy do not invalidate fasting. It notes that thyroid hormone levels can change while fasting, so non-urgent thyroid blood testing may be better scheduled outside Ramadan when clinically appropriate.
Anti-thyroid medicine and levothyroxine have timing and food considerations. Do not improvise a schedule: ask the prescriber how to fit each exact medicine and dose around suhoor and iftar. Uncontrolled hyperthyroidism can be dangerous and may make fasting unsuitable.
Make a plan before Ramadan
Arrange review early enough to assess disease control, confirm dosing times and know warning symptoms. Continue monitoring and seek care if symptoms worsen. Religious and clinical advice can be considered together when making an individual decision.
At a glance
Key takeaways
- Do not stop or retime thyroid medicine without medical advice.
- Discuss fasting early if thyroid disease is uncontrolled or symptoms are changing.
- Confirm when thyroid blood tests should be performed.
When to seek care
- Seek urgent care for chest pain, fainting, severe breathlessness, marked confusion or a very fast/irregular heartbeat.
- Arrange prompt review for worsening tremor, palpitations, heat intolerance, unusual drowsiness or other changing thyroid symptoms.
General information only. This article does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening, seek urgent medical care. In Malaysia, call 999 for an emergency or go to the nearest emergency department.
Source notes
Article sources
- KPMC: Thyroid Pesakit in the Month of Ramadan
- NHS: Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
- NHS: Levothyroxine
KPMC services related to this topic
Find information about the relevant KPMC service. A healthcare professional can advise whether the service is suitable for your needs.
Tentang kami KPMC Pembedahan Am Mohon temujanji
