Answered by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
I am a healthy university student. Last Ramadhan, while fasting, I was in a lab with protective clothing on. The heat from the clothing and the lights made me dizzy and light headed. Although I sat down I still felt as if I was about to pass out and I began sweating and my sight began to become darkened. The professor noticed this and offered some water. I drank some (about 2-3 small sips) because I was afraid I would faint. What should I do to make up for this fast? Is this an excusable fast or non-excusable?
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah,
I pray this finds you in the best of health and spirits.
It is permitted to break one’s fast when there is fear of harm or undue hardship–such as the case you describe–in fasting. Thus, it was permitted for you to break your fast. However, you need to make up that fast.
Please see the following related SunniPath Answers:
The Fiqh of Fasting
The Fiqh of Fasting: SunniPath Academy – Free Online Course & Hanafi FAQ
Jazakum Allahu Khaur
Wassalam