Joe Paterno was treated at a State College hospital for an apparent case of dehydration yesterday, and the Penn State football coach returned home last night after he passed a series of tests designed to rule out any major health problems. He is expected to return to his normal activities today with no interruptions.

Paterno, 81, was feeling nauseated, weak and tired yesterday morning while working from his home, and he was taken by ambulance to the hospital. But early in the day it was determined that his condition was not serious.

Penn State sports information director Jeff Nelson said in a statement last night that Paterno is expected to leave today as scheduled for Austin, Texas, to participate in an event honoring Texas coach Mack Brown.

Penn State quarterbacks coach Jay Paterno, Joe's son, told The Associated Press that Paterno's trip to Mount Nittany Medical Center was "no big deal. If it's dehydration, he's probably all talked out."