Which of the following are risk factors for heat illness in athletes?

• A. Increased rest and low training volume.
• B. Dehydration, poor conditioning or acclimatization, high temperature/humidity, heavy gear, inadequate fluid intake.
• C. Cool conditions with light gear.
• D. Mandatory cooldown after practice.

Answer: (B)

Heat illness tends to occur when the body can’t shed heat effectively during exercise. Dehydration lowers blood volume, impairs sweating, and raises core temperature. If an athlete is not well conditioned or acclimated to heat, their sweating response, heart rate control, and overall heat tolerance are reduced. Very hot and humid conditions reduce evaporative cooling, making it harder to cool down. Wearing heavy or restrictive gear adds heat load and blocks heat loss. Not drinking enough fluids worsens dehydration and disrupts the body’s ability to regulate temperature.

Together, dehydration, poor conditioning or acclimatization, hot/humid conditions, heavy gear, and inadequate fluid intake create the strongest combination of risk factors for heat illness.