With temperatures predicted to hit as high as 29C this weekend in some part of England, it's important that we all take steps to protect ourselves from heat-related conditions which could strike without due care and attention.
While some may be looking forward to celebrating the glorious sunshine in style, experts have issued a stern warning over binge drinking due to increased susceptibility to certain health conditions. Addiction specialists at Delamere, a private rehabilitation clinic have outlined a number of risks regarding boozing in the sun, citing dehydration among other ailments which could come as a result. Speaking on the subject, the experts said: "One of the biggest risks of drinking outside during summer is dehydration.
"Alcohol removes fluids from your blood through the renal system, which includes the kidneys, ureters and bladder, much more quickly than other liquids."
Read more: Expert issues travel warning to anyone who takes a suitcase with them on holiday
The Express reports that when the process occurs in the heat, there's a further risk of dehydration - with the body sweating, sometimes profusely, to maintain a good core temperature. Signs of dehydration include:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Feeling thirsty
- Dry mouth, lips and eyes
The experts say: "If you start to display signs of dehydration, it's important to replenish the fluid levels in your body, by drinking water or sports drinks. If your symptoms do not improve, it's important to seek medical treatment as it can develop into a serious problem."
Another risk associated with mixing drinking and the stunning weather comes in the form of sunburn, with research nodding to skin sensitivity after the consumption of alcohol. The experts, went on: "The research shows that the amount of UV it took to burn the individual's skin was a lot less than without consuming alcohol."
As alcohol has the capability of impairing judgement, the likelihood that someone may forget to top up their protection while intoxicated soars. Thirdly, alcohol consumption increases a person's susceptibility to heat stroke - which ultimately occurs when a body fails to regulate its temperature.
Signs of heat stroke include:
- Increased heart rate
- Rapid breathing
- Nausea
- High body temperature
- Headaches
- Altered mental behaviour
On heat stroke, the experts continued: "Alcohol can reduce the amount of sweat we produce, thus making it harder for the body to cool down. This can then cause your body temperature to rise to extremely dangerous levels, causing heat stroke."
There's finally a greater risk of drowning when intoxicated, as 'alcohol weakens the nerves that control involuntary actions, like breathing and the gag reflex'. The experts warned: "This makes swimming and being around water extremely dangerous, as it increases the risk of drowning if you start to struggle in the water."
Four risks of drinking alcohol in the sun:
- Dehydration
- Sunburn
- Heat stroke
- Drowning
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