Tuberculosis patients must not interrupt treatment during Ramzan

Hyderabad: TB treatment during Ramzan should not be interrupted or altered without medical supervision, senior pulmonologist Dr Mohd Vaseem said while advising patients undergoing tuberculosis therapy during the holy month.

He said tuberculosis is a serious infectious disease that requires strict and uninterrupted treatment. Any lapse in medication, he warned, may result in treatment failure or drug resistance.

Tuberculosis mainly affects the lungs and spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. According to Dr Mohd Vaseem, the standard course of treatment usually lasts six months or longer and follows a fixed daily drug regimen.

Patients must take these medicines regularly at prescribed times to ensure the bacteria are fully eliminated.

TB treatment during Ramzan requires strict adherence

Dr Mohd Vaseem stressed that fasting during Ramzan should not lead to missed doses or delayed medication intake. In many cases, TB medicines must be taken on an empty stomach to ensure proper absorption.

Therefore, patients who wish to fast should consult their treating doctor before Ramzan begins. Physicians can adjust the medication schedule to fit safely within the permissible eating hours between Sehri and Iftar.

He warned that skipping doses may prolong illness and increase the risk of drug-resistant tuberculosis. Drug resistance, he explained, makes the disease harder and more expensive to treat.

Such cases often require longer treatment, stronger drugs and may involve additional side effects. Consequently, consistent adherence remains the cornerstone of TB management.

TB treatment during Ramzan also needs proper nutrition

Dr Mohd Vaseem noted that many TB patients experience weakness, weight loss and reduced appetite during treatment. Prolonged fasting may worsen fatigue and slow recovery in patients who already face nutritional challenges.

Balanced nutrition between Iftar and Sehri therefore becomes essential. Patients should consume protein-rich foods, fruits and adequate fluids during non-fasting hours to support immunity and healing.

He also said patients with active tuberculosis may continue to suffer persistent cough and require close monitoring.

If symptoms such as high fever, worsening cough, breathlessness or blood in sputum appear, immediate medical attention is necessary. Continuing to fast despite worsening symptoms may increase complications.

TB treatment during Ramzan must prioritise health

Dr Mohd Vaseem also pointed out that Islamic teachings prioritise health and allow exemptions for individuals suffering from serious illness. Patients whose condition may worsen during fasting should carefully follow medical advice.

Families, he added, should support TB patients by ensuring a clean and well-ventilated living environment during Ramzan gatherings.

Crowded indoor spaces with poor ventilation may increase infection transmission. Therefore, covering the mouth while coughing and maintaining hand hygiene remain essential precautions.

Dr Mohd Vaseem concluded that tuberculosis is curable when treated properly. However, Ramzan should not become a reason to interrupt life-saving therapy. With medical consultation and strict adherence to medication, patients can protect their health and recovery during the holy month.

Dr Mohd Vaseem is a chest physician, pulmonologist, sleep specialist, diabetologist and general physician at High Care Hospitals in Attapur near Pillar No.102.