Which of the following are signs of dehydration?

The signs of dehydration include a variety of physical symptoms that indicate the body is lacking adequate fluids. The correct choice highlights headache, dizziness, and dark urine, all of which are well-established indicators of dehydration.

Headache can occur due to a decrease in fluid levels, which affects brain function and can trigger pain sensations. Dizziness often accompanies dehydration because it can lead to reduced blood volume, thereby decreasing blood flow and oxygen to the brain. Dark urine is a direct reflection of hydration status; when the body is dehydrated, urine becomes concentrated, leading to a darker color, indicating the need for more fluids.

Other choices present valid symptoms that relate to dehydration as well, but they may not be as definitive or characteristic as those in the selected answer. It's crucial to recognize that while fatigue, weakness, and thirst are common symptoms, they can also be caused by other factors. The same applies to dry skin, confusion, nausea, rapid heartbeat, fever, and muscle cramps, which, although linked to dehydration, can occur under different circumstances or medical conditions.

Understanding these symptoms is essential for effectively monitoring hydration status, especially in athletic and exercise settings where fluid loss can be significant.