As you may know, Aruba has more sunny days than any other Caribbean island and we recognize that our visitors are here to take advantage of the sun, sand and sea. With our resort being located on world-renowned Eagle Beach, we realize that our guests plan to spend most of their time relaxing on the beach sipping tropical drinks and enjoying our cooling trade winds. Of course we encourage our guests to do so but to keep in mind that Aruba is very close to the equator and the trade winds tend to mask the intensity of the hot sun.
Too often we see visitors suffering from heat stroke without even knowing it as they end up believing it was caused by something else, frequently mistaking it for food poisoning. If one gets too much sun too quickly, followed by some drinks at happy hour and a rich meal, heatstroke can take its toll. If food poisoning is suspected, the restaurant in question can investigate if others who had the same dish suffered the same results. In most cases, however, it turns out to be heatstroke. Restaurants in Aruba follow strict food safety guidelines and most food is imported out of the United States. Dining can be enjoyed fully without concern.
Heat
stroke results from prolonged exposure to high temperatures -- usually in combination with
dehydration -- which leads to failure of the body’s temperature control system. The technical definition of heatstroke is a core
body temperature greater than 104 degrees Fahrenheit, with complications involving the central
nervous system that occur after exposure to high temperatures. Other common symptoms include
nausea,
seizures, confusion, disorientation, and sometimes loss of consciousness or
coma.
Be aware of the causes of heatstroke:
- Exposure to a hot weather for long periods of time
- Strenuous activity in hot weather
- Wearing excess clothing
- Consuming alcohol
- Not drinking enough water
Symptoms to watch out for:
- A body temperature of 104 degrees or higher
- Confusion, disorientation, slurred speech or irritability
- Muscle weakness or cramps
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Onset of nausea and vomiting
- Flushed skin
- Rapid and shallow breathing
- Resting heart rate begins racing
- Throbbing headache
- Seizures or unconsciousness
Prevention is most important; here are some tips:
- Wear loose, light clothing
- Wear sunscreen, sunglasses and brimmed hats
- Drink plenty of water
- Take extra precaution if you take medication
- Never leave any human or pet in a parked car
- Avoid activity and direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day
Give your body time to adjust to being in warmer weather – moderate time exposed to heat
If you think someone may be experiencing heat stroke, please notify our front desk immediately so they can call the doctor. Meanwhile, it is important to lower the body temperature of the person suffering from heatstroke. The first step is always to move the person indoors or to the shade and remove extra layers of clothing. The most recommended method to reduce body temperature is cold water immersion. Alternatives include using a spray bottle to spray with water and placing cold compresses on various areas of the body.
We hope to have offered some useful information with this blog and look forward to hosting you for a carefree beach vacation!
