What is a common symptom of dehydration?

What is a common symptom of dehydration?

• A. Increased urination
• B. Drowsiness
• C. Excessive sweating
• D. High blood pressure

Answer: (B)

Drowsiness is a common symptom of dehydration because when the body lacks sufficient fluids, it can lead to decreased blood volume and reduced oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain. This can affect cognitive functions, leading to fatigue and drowsiness as the body attempts to conserve energy. In severe dehydration, this could also be compounded by electrolyte imbalances that further impact brain function. Regarding the other symptoms: increased urination is typically a sign of hydration rather than dehydration, as the kidneys effectively concentrate urine when fluid levels are low. Excessive sweating can lead to dehydration but is not a symptom that indicates dehydration itself; instead, it can be an initial cause of fluid loss. High blood pressure is not a common symptom of dehydration, as dehydration often leads to lowered blood volume, which can cause a drop in blood pressure. Understanding these connections helps clarify the physiological responses of the body to varying fluid levels.

Drowsiness is a common symptom of dehydration because when the body lacks sufficient fluids, it can lead to decreased blood volume and reduced oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain. This can affect cognitive functions, leading to fatigue and drowsiness as the body attempts to conserve energy. In severe dehydration, this could also be compounded by electrolyte imbalances that further impact brain function.

Regarding the other symptoms: increased urination is typically a sign of hydration rather than dehydration, as the kidneys effectively concentrate urine when fluid levels are low. Excessive sweating can lead to dehydration but is not a symptom that indicates dehydration itself; instead, it can be an initial cause of fluid loss. High blood pressure is not a common symptom of dehydration, as dehydration often leads to lowered blood volume, which can cause a drop in blood pressure. Understanding these connections helps clarify the physiological responses of the body to varying fluid levels.