What is one of the first signs of mild dehydration?

• A. Increased crankiness
• B. Chapped lips
• C. Thirst
• D. Dry mouth

Answer: (A)

The body signals dehydration first through thirst. When your body loses water and becomes slightly more concentrated, the brain detects this and triggers the urge to drink, which is the most immediate cue you’ll notice. Dry mouth and chapped lips tend to show up as dehydration progresses, not right at the very start. Increased crankiness can occur from dehydration, especially in kids or when combined with fatigue, but it isn’t the earliest indicator. So the best first sign to rely on is the sensation of thirst.