Which physiological response is commonly triggered by extreme heat exposure?

Extreme heat exposure typically leads to an increased heart rate as the body attempts to regulate its internal temperature. When someone is exposed to high temperatures, the body works harder to cool itself down through various mechanisms, one of which involves an increased heart rate. The heart pumps more blood to the skin's surface, facilitating heat loss through sweating.

This physiological response is crucial for maintaining core body temperature and preventing overheating, which can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. The body's effort to dissipate heat through an elevated heart rate is a natural reflex to cope with stressful environmental conditions.

Other options, such as decreased blood pressure, improved cognitive function, and enhanced physical performance, do not typically occur as direct responses to extreme heat exposure. Increased heart rate is therefore the most fitting response in this context.