PADI Divemaster Certification Practice Exam

What is a common result of prolonged exposure to excessive heat for divers?

1. Frostbite

2. Hypertension

3. Heat exhaustion

4. Diving reflex

The correct answer is: Heat exhaustion

Prolonged exposure to excessive heat can lead to heat exhaustion, which is a condition characterized by a combination of symptoms such as heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. For divers, particularly those who may be engaging in activities in hot environments or spending extended periods on the surface before or after dives, the risk of heat exhaustion increases. The body has limits to its ability to cool itself, and when these limits are surpassed, overheating can occur, leading to heat-related illnesses. Heat exhaustion is often the result of a combination of factors, such as dehydration, high temperatures, and physical exertion. It's crucial for divers to remain well-hydrated, take breaks in cooler areas, and wear appropriate clothing to mitigate these risks during surface times. While other options like frostbite and hypertension are concerns in specific circumstances, they do not directly correlate with heat exposure in the way that heat exhaustion does. Frostbite is related to extreme cold rather than heat, and hypertension involves high blood pressure which can be exacerbated by various factors but is not a direct result of heat exposure. The diving reflex is a physiological response to immersion in water that conserves oxygen, but it does not pertain to the consequences of heat exposure.