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Medicine on Shabbat: Difference between revisions
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One of several rabbinic decrees that our Sages enacted in order to guard the sanctity of Shabbos concerns the use of medications. In the opinion and experience of the Rabbis, easy access to medicine could lead to the transgression of certain Shabbos Labors. While issuing the decree, however, the Rabbis were lenient in certain cases of those suffering pain or distress. <ref> | One of several rabbinic decrees that our Sages enacted in order to guard the sanctity of Shabbos concerns the use of medications. In the opinion and experience of the Rabbis, easy access to medicine could lead to the transgression of certain Shabbos Labors. While issuing the decree, however, the Rabbis were lenient in certain cases of those suffering pain or distress. <ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> (See the footnote for some background)<ref> | ||
* Rashi (Shabbat 53b D"H Gezerah) explains that there is a rabbinic decree not to do an medical practice on Shabbat because one might come to violate the prohibition of [[Tochen]] (grinding) the ingredients for the medicine. Maggid Mishna (Shabbat 2:10) draws a distinction between one is sick but isn't in danger of his life and a person who is pain. Tur and Shulchan Aruch 338:1 rule that a healthy person who is in pain may not do any activity of healing because of the rabbinic decree. </ref>. The details of what's permissible and what's forbidden is described below: | * Rashi (Shabbat 53b D"H Gezerah) explains that there is a rabbinic decree not to do an medical practice on Shabbat because one might come to violate the prohibition of [[Tochen]] (grinding) the ingredients for the medicine. Maggid Mishna (Shabbat 2:10) draws a distinction between one is sick but isn't in danger of his life and a person who is pain. Tur and Shulchan Aruch 338:1 rule that a healthy person who is in pain may not do any activity of healing because of the rabbinic decree. </ref>. The details of what's permissible and what's forbidden is described below: | ||
==Taking Medicine== | ==Taking Medicine== | ||
===If one has a minor condition=== | ===If one has a minor condition=== | ||
# If someone has a minor condition which hurts such as a tooth ache, throat ache, head ache, cold, and cough it is forbidden to take any medicine such as pills or drops. However, someone who is in a lot of pain and because of it he is in bed or his body is weakened such as a migraine it permitted to take a medicine. <Ref>Shemirat Shabbat KeHilchata 34:1,3. | # If someone has a minor condition which hurts such as a tooth ache, throat ache, head ache, cold, and cough it is forbidden to take any medicine such as pills or drops. However, someone who is in a lot of pain and because of it he is in bed or his body is weakened such as a migraine it permitted to take a medicine. <Ref>Shemirat Shabbat KeHilchata 34:1,3. The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)writes that although contemporary poskim debate whether nowadays we can be more lenient with taking medication on Shabbos because of the change in technique, the general consensus is to reject this argument. See Minchas Shabbos 91:9; Ketzos ha-Shulchan 134:7; Chelkas Yaakov 4:41; and Tzitz Eliezer 8:15-15. Listen to [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/739326/Rabbi_Aryeh_Lebowitz/Ten_Minute_Halacha_-_Medicine_on_Shabbos_Part_I Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz on YUTorah.org]. </ref> | ||
===If one has a serious sickness=== | ===If one has a serious sickness=== | ||
# If one has fever, feels weak all over, or feels bad enough to require bed rest, he can be classified as a “patient not dangerously ill” and he is permitted to take oral medications. <ref>Mishna Brurah 328:121 permits taking an oral medication without any shinui (alteration from the normal procedure). Yalkut Yosef (Shabbat, vol 4, pg 129) and 39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 492) agree with the Mishna Brurah. | # If one has fever, feels weak all over, or feels bad enough to require bed rest, he can be classified as a “patient not dangerously ill” and he is permitted to take oral medications. <ref>Mishna Brurah 328:121 permits taking an oral medication without any shinui (alteration from the normal procedure). Yalkut Yosef (Shabbat, vol 4, pg 129) and 39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 492) agree with the Mishna Brurah. | ||
Halachos of Refuah on Shabbos (Rabbi Bodner, pg 55) and | Halachos of Refuah on Shabbos (Rabbi Bodner, pg 55) and The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)write that most poskim agree with the Mishna Brurah. See, however, Sh"t Igrot Moshe 3:53, Tzitz Eliezer 8:15:15, and Minchat Yitzchak 1:108, 6:28. </ref> | ||
# Since “requiring bed rest” and “weak all over” are subjective terms, it is up to each individual to determine his personal pain threshold. There is no requirement to be overly stringent when judging the degree of illness. <ref>[http://www.torah.org/advanced/weekly-halacha/5760/chukas.html Rabbi Doniel Neustadt on Torah.org]. See also Sh"t Tzitz Eliezer 14:50-7 and 17:13. </ref> | # Since “requiring bed rest” and “weak all over” are subjective terms, it is up to each individual to determine his personal pain threshold. There is no requirement to be overly stringent when judging the degree of illness. <ref>[http://www.torah.org/advanced/weekly-halacha/5760/chukas.html Rabbi Doniel Neustadt on Torah.org]. See also Sh"t Tzitz Eliezer 14:50-7 and 17:13. </ref> | ||
===Infants=== | ===Infants=== | ||
# Healthy infants and babies until the age of three (and according to some poskim even older children till the age of six or nine) are also halachically classified as “patients not dangerously ill.” <Ref> Chazon Ish, O.C. 59:3, Rav S.Z. Auerbach in Nishmas Avraham 328:54, and Rav Y.S. Elyashiv in Eis Laledes, pg. 57, quote the age of 2-3. Tzitz Eliezer 8:15-12 quotes ages of 6. Minchas Yitzchak 1:78 quotes age of 9. </ref> (In the final analysis, it all depends on the strength and maturity of the child.) <ref> | # Healthy infants and babies until the age of three (and according to some poskim even older children till the age of six or nine) are also halachically classified as “patients not dangerously ill.” <Ref> Chazon Ish, O.C. 59:3, Rav S.Z. Auerbach in Nishmas Avraham 328:54, and Rav Y.S. Elyashiv in Eis Laledes, pg. 57, quote the age of 2-3. Tzitz Eliezer 8:15-12 quotes ages of 6. Minchas Yitzchak 1:78 quotes age of 9. </ref> (In the final analysis, it all depends on the strength and maturity of the child.) <ref>The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> Therefore, they are permitted to take all forms of medicine, provided, of course, that no Biblical prohibitions are transgressed. <ref> Rama, O.C. 328:17. Note, however, that not all of a baby’s needs are exempt from the prohibition against medication; see, for instance, Mishnah Berurah 328:131. See Tehillah l’David 328:24 and Minchas Yitzchak 4:124 who deal with this difficulty </ref> | ||
===Preparing medicine from before Shabbos=== | ===Preparing medicine from before Shabbos=== | ||
# One may crush a capsule or tablet of medicine into a food or drink before Shabbat (so it becomes disguised by the food) and then eat the food or drink on Shabbat. <ref>39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 481), [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/739326/Rabbi_Aryeh_Lebowitz/Ten_Minute_Halacha_-_Medicine_on_Shabbos_Part_I Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz on YUTorah.org] </ref> | # One may crush a capsule or tablet of medicine into a food or drink before Shabbat (so it becomes disguised by the food) and then eat the food or drink on Shabbat. <ref>39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 481), [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/739326/Rabbi_Aryeh_Lebowitz/Ten_Minute_Halacha_-_Medicine_on_Shabbos_Part_I Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz on YUTorah.org] </ref> | ||
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===Cleaning a wound=== | ===Cleaning a wound=== | ||
# It is permitted to clean and bandage a wound or to pour hydrogen peroxide over it. <ref> | # It is permitted to clean and bandage a wound or to pour hydrogen peroxide over it. <ref>The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)based on S"A 328:23</ref> | ||
===Braces=== | ===Braces=== | ||
# Braces may be worn on Shabbos because there is no medicine for aligning teeth properly. <ref> | # Braces may be worn on Shabbos because there is no medicine for aligning teeth properly. <ref>The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)writes that it is permissible to wear braces on Shabbat because the goal of the treatment or procedure can only be achieved without the use of medicine. </ref> | ||
==Specific conditions== | ==Specific conditions== | ||
===Abscess=== | ===Abscess=== | ||
# An abscess may be squeezed to relieve pressure from pus, even if some blood is secreted in the process. <Ref> | # An abscess may be squeezed to relieve pressure from pus, even if some blood is secreted in the process. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)quoting S"A O.C. 328:28 and Mishnah Berurah 328:89 </ref> | ||
===Acne=== | ===Acne=== | ||
# All medication for acne may not be taken on Shabbat. <ref> | # All medication for acne may not be taken on Shabbat. <ref>The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Angina=== | ===Angina=== | ||
# All medication for angina are permitted to be taken on Shabbat. <ref> | # All medication for angina are permitted to be taken on Shabbat. <ref>The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Arthritis=== | ===Arthritis=== | ||
# Anti-inflammatory medication for mild arthritis are forbidden. <ref> | # Anti-inflammatory medication for mild arthritis are forbidden. <ref>The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Asthma=== | ===Asthma=== | ||
# All oral and breathing medications for mild asthma are permitted to be taken on Shabbat. <ref> | # All oral and breathing medications for mild asthma are permitted to be taken on Shabbat. <ref>The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Athlete’s foot=== | ===Athlete’s foot=== | ||
# One may not use any medication for athlete’s foot on Shabbat. <ref> | # One may not use any medication for athlete’s foot on Shabbat. <ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Back or neck brace=== | ===Back or neck brace=== | ||
# One may put on or remove a back or neck brace on Shabbat. <ref> | # One may put on or remove a back or neck brace on Shabbat. <ref>The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)Based on ruling of Rav S.Z. Auerbach in Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 34, note 113. </ref> | ||
===Bee sting=== | ===Bee sting=== | ||
# If one has a bee or wasp sting the stinger may be removed and the area may be washed with ice water, lemon juice or vinegar, etc. The area may not be soaked, however, in those liquids. <ref>39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 478), [http://www.torah.org/advanced/weekly-halacha/5760/chukas.html Rabbi Doniel Neustadt on Torah.org], See Mishnah Berurah 328:141,142 </ref> | # If one has a bee or wasp sting the stinger may be removed and the area may be washed with ice water, lemon juice or vinegar, etc. The area may not be soaked, however, in those liquids. <ref>39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 478), [http://www.torah.org/advanced/weekly-halacha/5760/chukas.html Rabbi Doniel Neustadt on Torah.org], See Mishnah Berurah 328:141,142 </ref> | ||
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# It's permissible to take birth control pills on Shabbat (assuming she received halachic permission to take these pills). <ref> [http://www.dailyhalacha.com/displayRead.asp?readID=2228 Rabbi Mansour on DailyHalacha.com]</ref> | # It's permissible to take birth control pills on Shabbat (assuming she received halachic permission to take these pills). <ref> [http://www.dailyhalacha.com/displayRead.asp?readID=2228 Rabbi Mansour on DailyHalacha.com]</ref> | ||
===Bone fracture=== | ===Bone fracture=== | ||
# For a simple bone fracture a non-Jew may be asked to do anything necessary, e.g., make a phone call, drive a car, take x-rays or put on a cast. [If a non-Jew is not available, some poskim permit a Jew to do these acts if they are done with a shinui, in an abnormal manner. <Ref> This is the view of Shulchan Aruch ha-Rav 328:19 and Eglei Tal (Tochen 18). Some poskim (Rav S.Z. Auerbach, quoted in Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 33, note 18; Shevet ha-Levi 8:93) rule that one may rely on this view, especially when there is “danger to a limb.” Note, however, that Mishnah Berurah, Aruch ha-Shulchan and most poskim do not agree with this leniency. </ref>] If there is even a small chance of internal bleeding, e.g., the thigh or pelvis bone was fractured, or if the elbow was shattered, all Shabbos restrictions are lifted. <Ref> | # For a simple bone fracture a non-Jew may be asked to do anything necessary, e.g., make a phone call, drive a car, take x-rays or put on a cast. [If a non-Jew is not available, some poskim permit a Jew to do these acts if they are done with a shinui, in an abnormal manner. <Ref> This is the view of Shulchan Aruch ha-Rav 328:19 and Eglei Tal (Tochen 18). Some poskim (Rav S.Z. Auerbach, quoted in Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 33, note 18; Shevet ha-Levi 8:93) rule that one may rely on this view, especially when there is “danger to a limb.” Note, however, that Mishnah Berurah, Aruch ha-Shulchan and most poskim do not agree with this leniency. </ref>] If there is even a small chance of internal bleeding, e.g., the thigh or pelvis bone was fractured, or if the elbow was shattered, all Shabbos restrictions are lifted. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Cellulites=== | ===Cellulites=== | ||
# Since cellulitis may be life-threatening immediate medical attention is required. <Ref> | # Since cellulitis may be life-threatening immediate medical attention is required. <Ref>The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Cold=== | ===Cold=== | ||
# For a cold one may not take medications or vitamins. <ref> 39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 481), [http://www.torah.org/advanced/weekly-halacha/5760/chukas.html Rabbi Doniel Neustadt on Torah.org], Rav S.Z. Auerbach (Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 34, note 52) write that there is room for leniency in kavod ha-beriyos situations, e.g., a constantly dripping nose which is disturbing to people who are around him.</ref> unless one is experiencing discomfort in his whole body or is bedridden. However, one may eat chicken soup or tea with honey to obtain relief.<Ref> 39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 481), | # For a cold one may not take medications or vitamins. <ref> 39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 481), [http://www.torah.org/advanced/weekly-halacha/5760/chukas.html Rabbi Doniel Neustadt on Torah.org], Rav S.Z. Auerbach (Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 34, note 52) write that there is room for leniency in kavod ha-beriyos situations, e.g., a constantly dripping nose which is disturbing to people who are around him.</ref> unless one is experiencing discomfort in his whole body or is bedridden. However, one may eat chicken soup or tea with honey to obtain relief.<Ref> 39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 481), The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Cough=== | ===Cough=== | ||
# Cough–medication may not be taken. If the cough may be an indication of pneumonia or asthma, medication is permitted. <Ref> | # Cough–medication may not be taken. If the cough may be an indication of pneumonia or asthma, medication is permitted. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Diabetes=== | ===Diabetes=== | ||
# All necessary medications for diabetes may be taken on Shabbat. <ref> | # All necessary medications for diabetes may be taken on Shabbat. <ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Diarrhea=== | ===Diarrhea=== | ||
# For diarrhea one may not take medication unless one is in severe pain or weak all over. Prune juice or any other food or drink is permitted. A hot water bottle is permitted when one experiences strong pains. <ref> Mishnah Berurah 326:19, | # For diarrhea one may not take medication unless one is in severe pain or weak all over. Prune juice or any other food or drink is permitted. A hot water bottle is permitted when one experiences strong pains. <ref> Mishnah Berurah 326:19, The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Chapped hands=== | ===Chapped hands=== | ||
# For dried (or chapped) hands it is prohibited to rub them with either oil, ointment (Vaseline) or lotion. <ref> 39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 481) </ref>One who regularly uses a pourable, liquid lotion or oil on his hands (whether they are chapped or not) may do so on Shabbos, too, even if his hands are chapped.<ref> | # For dried (or chapped) hands it is prohibited to rub them with either oil, ointment (Vaseline) or lotion. <ref> 39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 481) </ref>One who regularly uses a pourable, liquid lotion or oil on his hands (whether they are chapped or not) may do so on Shabbos, too, even if his hands are chapped.<ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)based on S”A 327:1</ref> | ||
===Chapped lips=== | ===Chapped lips=== | ||
# For dried or cracked lips one may not apply chap stick or any other medication, liquid or otherwise. <Ref> 39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 481), | # For dried or cracked lips one may not apply chap stick or any other medication, liquid or otherwise. <Ref> 39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 481), The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Ear infection=== | ===Ear infection=== | ||
# For an ear infection all medications are permitted. Cotton balls may be inserted. <Ref>[http://www.torah.org/advanced/weekly-halacha/5760/chukas.html Rabbi Doniel Neustadt on Torah.org], It is prohibited to tear cotton balling on Shabbos; Minchas Yitzchak 4:45; Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 35:20. </ref> Even if the infection is no longer present, prescribed medicine begun on a weekday must be continued until finished in order to avoid a relapse. <Ref> | # For an ear infection all medications are permitted. Cotton balls may be inserted. <Ref>[http://www.torah.org/advanced/weekly-halacha/5760/chukas.html Rabbi Doniel Neustadt on Torah.org], It is prohibited to tear cotton balling on Shabbos; Minchas Yitzchak 4:45; Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 35:20. </ref> Even if the infection is no longer present, prescribed medicine begun on a weekday must be continued until finished in order to avoid a relapse. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Eye inflammation=== | ===Eye inflammation=== | ||
# For an eye inflammation eye drops (or ointment) may be instilled in the eye. If the eye is not inflamed but merely irritated, no medication is permitted. <Ref> | # For an eye inflammation eye drops (or ointment) may be instilled in the eye. If the eye is not inflamed but merely irritated, no medication is permitted. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)based on S”A O.C. 328:20 </ref> | ||
===Fever=== | ===Fever=== | ||
# For a fever any oral medications may be taken. A mercury thermometer may be used. <Ref> | # For a fever any oral medications may be taken. A mercury thermometer may be used. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)based on S”A O.C. 306:7 </ref> If a person is suffering from high-grade fever, a non-Jew may be asked to do whatever the patient needs in order to feel better. <Ref> Mishnah Berurah 328:46, 47 </ref> If the cause of the fever is unknown, a doctor should be consulted. | ||
===Headache=== | ===Headache=== | ||
# For a headache medication should not be taken. If the headache is severe enough so that one feels weak all over or is forced to go to bed, medication may be taken. One who is unsure if he has reached that stage of illness may be lenient and take pain- relieving medication. <Ref> | # For a headache medication should not be taken. If the headache is severe enough so that one feels weak all over or is forced to go to bed, medication may be taken. One who is unsure if he has reached that stage of illness may be lenient and take pain- relieving medication. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)See Ketzos ha-Shulchan 138, pg. 100; Minchas Yitzchak 3:35; Be’er Moshe 1:33; 2:32. </ref> | ||
===Heartburn=== | ===Heartburn=== | ||
# For heartburn foods which will have a soothing effect may be eaten. Some poskim permit taking anti-acid medication while others are stringent. If the medicine is prescribed by a doctor, one may be lenient. <ref> | # For heartburn foods which will have a soothing effect may be eaten. Some poskim permit taking anti-acid medication while others are stringent. If the medicine is prescribed by a doctor, one may be lenient. <ref>The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)See Ketzos ha-Shulchan 138, pg. 98; Tzitz Eliezer 8:15 (15-21); Az Nidberu 1:31; Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 34:4 </ref> | ||
===Hemorrhoids=== | ===Hemorrhoids=== | ||
# For a mild case of hemorrhoids medication may not be taken. For a severe case, it is permitted to sit in a “sitz bath” (with water that heated before Shabbos), or use medicated pads or suppositories. <Ref> | # For a mild case of hemorrhoids medication may not be taken. For a severe case, it is permitted to sit in a “sitz bath” (with water that heated before Shabbos), or use medicated pads or suppositories. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Herniated disc=== | ===Herniated disc=== | ||
# For a herniated disc (back and leg pain) ice packs or hot packs are permitted. Physical therapy exercises, e.g. stretching, are permitted. If the pain is severe to the degree that the entire body is in pain, painkillers or other medications are permitted as well. <Ref> | # For a herniated disc (back and leg pain) ice packs or hot packs are permitted. Physical therapy exercises, e.g. stretching, are permitted. If the pain is severe to the degree that the entire body is in pain, painkillers or other medications are permitted as well. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Indigestion=== | ===Indigestion=== | ||
# One may take a leisurely walk in order to help digestion. <ref>39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 477) </ref> | # One may take a leisurely walk in order to help digestion. <ref>39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 477) </ref> | ||
# One may drink prune juice in order to act as a laxative. <ref>39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 481) </ref> | # One may drink prune juice in order to act as a laxative. <ref>39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 481) </ref> | ||
===Infection=== | ===Infection=== | ||
# For an infection all medications are permitted. <Ref> | # For an infection all medications are permitted. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Lactose=== | ===Lactose=== | ||
# For lactose intolerance one may not take enzyme supplement tablets. But it is permitted to add enzyme drops to liquid dairy foods before Shabbos and drink the dairy on Shabbos. <Ref> | # For lactose intolerance one may not take enzyme supplement tablets. But it is permitted to add enzyme drops to liquid dairy foods before Shabbos and drink the dairy on Shabbos. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt). See Refuas Yisrael, pg. 245. </ref> | ||
===Migraine=== | ===Migraine=== | ||
# For a migraine headache any oral medications may be taken. <Ref> | # For a migraine headache any oral medications may be taken. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Nosebleed=== | ===Nosebleed=== | ||
# For a nosebleed bleeding may be stopped with a tissue or a napkin. If none is available, a cloth napkin may be used. <ref> Mishnah Berurah 328:146 </ref> | # For a nosebleed bleeding may be stopped with a tissue or a napkin. If none is available, a cloth napkin may be used. <ref> Mishnah Berurah 328:146 </ref> | ||
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# One may insert and remove a retainer on Shabbat. <ref> Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 34:29 </ref> | # One may insert and remove a retainer on Shabbat. <ref> Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 34:29 </ref> | ||
===Scab=== | ===Scab=== | ||
# It is permitted to remove a scab as long as blood is not drawn from the wound. <ref> | # It is permitted to remove a scab as long as blood is not drawn from the wound. <ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)based on S”A O.C. 328:22 and Mishnah Berurah 90. </ref> | ||
===Sleep disorder=== | ===Sleep disorder=== | ||
# There are conflicting views among contemporary poskim about taking sleeping pills or No-Doze pills. <ref> See Minchas Yitzchak 3:21, Tzitz Eliezer 9:17, Be’er Moshe 1:33 and Shalmei Yehudah, pg. 176, for the various views. </ref> One who is weak all over or bedridden may take them. Cotton balls may be used as ear plugs. It is permitted to use pliable ear plugs, which are made from a wax-like material that spreads to fill the cavity of the ear. <ref> | # There are conflicting views among contemporary poskim about taking sleeping pills or No-Doze pills. <ref> See Minchas Yitzchak 3:21, Tzitz Eliezer 9:17, Be’er Moshe 1:33 and Shalmei Yehudah, pg. 176, for the various views. </ref> One who is weak all over or bedridden may take them. Cotton balls may be used as ear plugs. It is permitted to use pliable ear plugs, which are made from a wax-like material that spreads to fill the cavity of the ear. <ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)quoting Rav S.Z. Auerbach (Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 14:45); Shraga ha-Meir 5:23. Rav Y.S. Elyashiv, however, recommends not using pliable ear plugs on Shabbos; see Ashrei ha-Ish 17:117; 33:7 </ref> | ||
===Sore throat=== | ===Sore throat=== | ||
# For a sore throat medication may not be taken. Gargling is prohibited. <Ref> S”A 328:32</ref> Drinking tea or any other hot drink, or sucking a candy, is permitted even if the intention is for medicinal purposes. <ref>S”A 328:37 </ref> | # For a sore throat medication may not be taken. Gargling is prohibited. <Ref> S”A 328:32</ref> Drinking tea or any other hot drink, or sucking a candy, is permitted even if the intention is for medicinal purposes. <ref>S”A 328:37 </ref> | ||
===Splinter=== | ===Splinter=== | ||
# A splinter under the skin may be extracted with the fingers, or with tweezers or a needle. If, unavoidably, a little blood is secreted in the process, it is of no consequence. <ref> | # A splinter under the skin may be extracted with the fingers, or with tweezers or a needle. If, unavoidably, a little blood is secreted in the process, it is of no consequence. <ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)quoting Mishnah Berurah 328:88 and Sha’ar ha-Tziyun 63. 39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 478) writes one may remove a splinter even if it may bleed, but one may remove if it will certainly bleed unless it is very painful. </ref> | ||
===Sprain=== | ===Sprain=== | ||
# For a sprain if the patient is not experiencing severe pain, nothing may be done. If the patient is experiencing severe pain, medication may be taken and a massage may be given. A makeshift splint may be applied, provided that no Shabbos Labors are transgressed. <Ref> | # For a sprain if the patient is not experiencing severe pain, nothing may be done. If the patient is experiencing severe pain, medication may be taken and a massage may be given. A makeshift splint may be applied, provided that no Shabbos Labors are transgressed. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Stitches=== | ===Stitches=== | ||
# Only a non-Jew is allowed to stitch any wound, even if the stitching is done only for cosmetic reasons. <ref> Minchas Shelomo 2:34-33 and Nishmas Avraham, vol. 4, O.C. 340. See also Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 33, note 26, and 35, note 65-66.</ref>A Jew may place a butterfly bandage or steri-strips to close a simple laceration or cut. Surgical skin closure glue may also be used. <ref> | # Only a non-Jew is allowed to stitch any wound, even if the stitching is done only for cosmetic reasons. <ref> Minchas Shelomo 2:34-33 and Nishmas Avraham, vol. 4, O.C. 340. See also Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 33, note 26, and 35, note 65-66.</ref>A Jew may place a butterfly bandage or steri-strips to close a simple laceration or cut. Surgical skin closure glue may also be used. <ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Stopping bleeding=== | ===Stopping bleeding=== | ||
# Pressure may be applied to a cut to stop bleeding. Sucking or squeezing out blood is prohibited. <ref> [http://www.torah.org/advanced/weekly-halacha/5760/chukas.html Rabbi Doniel Neustadt on Torah.org], Mishnah Berurah 328:147 </ref> | # Pressure may be applied to a cut to stop bleeding. Sucking or squeezing out blood is prohibited. <ref> [http://www.torah.org/advanced/weekly-halacha/5760/chukas.html Rabbi Doniel Neustadt on Torah.org], Mishnah Berurah 328:147 </ref> | ||
===Strep throat=== | ===Strep throat=== | ||
# For a strep throat all oral medications may be taken. Even if the infection is no longer present, the prescribed medicine begun on a weekday must be continued until finished. A culture may be taken by a non-Jew. <Ref> | # For a strep throat all oral medications may be taken. Even if the infection is no longer present, the prescribed medicine begun on a weekday must be continued until finished. A culture may be taken by a non-Jew. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Sunburn=== | ===Sunburn=== | ||
# For a ordinary sunburn medications are not permitted. <Ref> | # For a ordinary sunburn medications are not permitted. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
===Sweating=== | ===Sweating=== | ||
# It is permitted to sprinkle baby powder on those parts of the body which are perspiring. <Ref> Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 34:12 </ref> | # It is permitted to sprinkle baby powder on those parts of the body which are perspiring. <Ref> Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 34:12 </ref> | ||
===Swelling=== | ===Swelling=== | ||
# It is permitted to press a knife, etc. against the skin to prevent or minimize swelling. <Ref> Mishnah Berurah 328:144 </ref> It is permitted to wash or soak the swollen area in water.<ref> Tzitz Eliezer 8:15 (15-12) </ref>It is permitted to place a compress, <ref> | # It is permitted to press a knife, etc. against the skin to prevent or minimize swelling. <Ref> Mishnah Berurah 328:144 </ref> It is permitted to wash or soak the swollen area in water.<ref> Tzitz Eliezer 8:15 (15-12) </ref>It is permitted to place a compress, <ref>The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)writes in order to avoid sechitah and/or libun, only paper towels or napkins should be used and care should be taken not to squeeze them.</ref> ice (placed in plastic bag) or any frozen item over a swollen area. <ref> Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 35:35; Be’er Moshe 1:33-18 </ref> | ||
===Toothache=== | ===Toothache=== | ||
# A minor (cavity) toothache may not be treated with painkillers, but one is permitted to drink whiskey, etc., provided that it is swallowed immediately. <ref> | # A minor (cavity) toothache may not be treated with painkillers, but one is permitted to drink whiskey, etc., provided that it is swallowed immediately. <ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)based on S”A O.C. 328:32. See also Mishnah Berurah 328:102 </ref>A severe toothache (to the point where one feels weak all over) or gum infection may be treated with oral medication. If the tooth needs to be extracted, a non-Jew may be asked to do so. <ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)based on Rama, O.C. 328:3. See Tzitz Eliezer 9:17 (2-11)</ref> | ||
===Wound=== | ===Wound=== | ||
# Cuts and abrasions may be washed or soaked in water. Hydrogen peroxide may be poured over a cut. It is not permitted, however, to soak absorbent cotton or paper in such a solution and then wash the wound with it. The wound may be covered with a non-medicated Band-Aid. <ref> | # Cuts and abrasions may be washed or soaked in water. Hydrogen peroxide may be poured over a cut. It is not permitted, however, to soak absorbent cotton or paper in such a solution and then wash the wound with it. The wound may be covered with a non-medicated Band-Aid. <ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
==Purchasing the medicine== | ==Purchasing the medicine== | ||
# In situations where one is considered “ill” and is permitted to take medicine on Shabbos, it is also permitted to ask a non-Jew to drive to a drugstore, buy medicine and bring it to him. <Ref> | # In situations where one is considered “ill” and is permitted to take medicine on Shabbos, it is also permitted to ask a non-Jew to drive to a drugstore, buy medicine and bring it to him. <Ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
==Specific medicines== | ==Specific medicines== | ||
| Line 127: | Line 126: | ||
# Foods and drinks are permitted even when they are consumed for medicinal purposes. For example, one may have tea for a sore throat on Shabbos. <ref>[http://www.torah.org/advanced/weekly-halacha/5760/chukas.html Rabbi Doniel Neustadt on Torah.org], 39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 477) </ref> | # Foods and drinks are permitted even when they are consumed for medicinal purposes. For example, one may have tea for a sore throat on Shabbos. <ref>[http://www.torah.org/advanced/weekly-halacha/5760/chukas.html Rabbi Doniel Neustadt on Torah.org], 39 Melachos (Rabbi Ribiat, vol 2, pg 477) </ref> | ||
=== Vitamins === | === Vitamins === | ||
# If the purpose of the vitamin is to serve as a food supplement it is permitted to take such a vitamin on Shabbat. <ref> | # If the purpose of the vitamin is to serve as a food supplement it is permitted to take such a vitamin on Shabbat. <ref>The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)</ref> | ||
# If the purpose of the vitamin is to strengthen a weak body or to relieve certain symptoms, in the opinion of many poskim, one may not take those vitamins on Shabbos. <ref> | # If the purpose of the vitamin is to strengthen a weak body or to relieve certain symptoms, in the opinion of many poskim, one may not take those vitamins on Shabbos. <ref> The Weekly Halachah Discussion (Rabbi Doniel Neustadt)writes to see Igros Moshe, O.C. 3:54, Minchas Shelomo 2:37 and Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 34, note 86, quoting Rav S.Z. Auerbach. See, however, Tzitz Eliezer 14:50, who takes a more lenient approach concerning vitamins on Shabbos. </ref> | ||
==Elective surgery== | ==Elective surgery== | ||
