Question
I am an elderly woman suffering from diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, migraines, and kidney stones, among others. However, thanks to Allah, I am able to fast, and fasting does not pose a danger to my health. But I have a problem: I drink a lot of water during the iftar period because I fear becoming weak during the day and having to break my fast to drink plenty of fluids. After the call to prayer, I experience acidity in my stomach and try to expel it from my mouth, but I cannot because I involuntarily swallow my saliva. This has happened to me for many days, almost half of Ramadan, and I tried to fast in Shawwal, and the same thing happened to me. What is the ruling in my case? Should I make up those days, knowing that during my make-up fasts, the same thing happens to me, and I cannot stop drinking water because if I get thirsty, I suffer from headaches?
Answer
I say, and with God's help: The return of food to your mouth due to burping does not break the fast, unless its quantity is very large, such that it cannot be controlled in the mouth, and you were intentional. In your case, if the doctor informs you that fasting is harmful to you, then do not fast, and you must provide a compensation for each day by feeding a needy person. And God knows best.