What are the common signs of dehydration?

Thirst, dry mouth, fatigue, and dark urine are indeed common signs of dehydration. When the body begins to lose more fluids than it takes in, it triggers the feeling of thirst as a natural signal to encourage fluid intake. A dry mouth often accompanies thirst because the body has less moisture to produce saliva. Fatigue is a result of the body's reduced ability to function optimally when dehydrated, as fluid balance is crucial for energy levels and physical performance.

Dark urine is a particularly telling sign of dehydration; it indicates that the kidneys are conserving water due to a lack of fluid intake, leading to more concentrated waste being excreted. In healthy hydration, urine typically appears a lighter color, indicating proper hydration levels. Recognizing these symptoms is essential for taking action to rehydrate effectively, especially in wilderness or remote settings where access to water might be limited.