Warmer weather in Tennessee means friends over to go swimming, nights out on the patio, and more fun outside. Gatherings like these may involve drinking alcohol and if so, the summer heat can have an impact many may not expect.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes many correlations between alcohol and the body, including how alcohol impacts everyone differently. The CDC also has guidelines on what is considered “binge” drinking. According to the institution, “Binge drinking is defined as a pattern of alcohol consumption that brings the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level to 0.08% or more. This pattern of drinking usually corresponds to five or more drinks on a single occasion for men or four or more drinks on a single occasion for women, generally within about two hours.”
Dehydration
One of the many ways alcohol can affect someone is by making that person dehydrated. Chemicals in alcohol make the body more dehydrated which can also happen when someone is in the sun for too long.
Just because alcohol is a liquid does not mean that it is providing the hydration that our bodies need. Being dehydrated can lead to someone feeling:
- Dizzy;
- Disoriented:
- Fatigued: and,
- Unable to make sound decisions.
In serious cases, dehydration can also lead to heat stroke or death.
How to Prevent Dehydration
The best way to combat dehydration is by drinking water. A person drinking alcohol may feel full after several drinks, but that is a false sense of feeling full and will not satisfy the proper hydration someone needs. This means that if a person tries to complete an otherwise routine task, such as driving, and is dehydrated, the consequences could be severe.
Were You Charged with a DUI?
DUIs tend to uptick in the summertime, whether from someone attending a gathering or because they became disoriented due to dehydration. No matter the reason, if you were charged with a DUI, you need the best criminal defense possible. The attorneys at Puryear, Newman & Morton, PLLC is here for you whether you’re facing a criminal, family, personal injury, or other legal matter. Review all our practice areas and contact us online or by phone to set up a consultation. (615) 933-2366