Mixing sun and alcohol may pose health risks

Warm weather and a cold beer -- it's a combination many students might find appealing, but some may be unaware of the potential health risks involved with alcohol and the sun.

Mixing alcohol and exposure to the sun may dehydrate your body and lead to heat exhaustion, said Michele Winter, student director for the alcohol, tobacco and other drugs section of HealthWorks.

If gone untreated, heat exhaustion can progress into heat stroke, a serious condition and a medical emergency in which the patient should go to the hospital or see doctor immediately. The symptoms of heat stroke include a body temperature of 105 degrees, and hot, dry skin, the spokesperson said. In 80 percent of all heat stroke cases, the patient experiences a sudden rise in temperature, which can lead to a coma and/or hallucinations.

Hal McCullough, owner of Cafe 210, said dehydration due to alcohol and the sun can be a problem for outdoor customers -- especially ones who have driven long hours to State College and haven't eaten.

"We always make sure to have ice water for (customers) that have had too much sun," he added.

Drinking alcohol outdoors can be safe if students take precautions, Winter said.

Drinking water and noncarbonated, decaffeinated beverages before drinking alcohol or going out in the sun may counterbalance the effects of dehydration and heat exhaustion, she added.