What is a common sign of dehydration in adults?

Decreased skin turgor or dry mucous membranes is a common sign of dehydration in adults because both of these signs indicate a loss of water in the body. Skin turgor refers to the skin's elasticity and its ability to return to its normal shape after being pinched; when a person is dehydrated, the skin loses elasticity and may take longer to snap back, indicating a fluid deficit.

Dry mucous membranes, such as in the mouth and nose, also signal dehydration, as these tissues require adequate hydration to maintain moisture levels. These signs are often assessed during a physical examination and can provide immediate visual cues to healthcare providers about a patient’s hydration status.

In contrast, elevated blood pressure, swelling in extremities, and increased thirst can occur, but they are not as definitive for diagnosing dehydration as decreased skin turgor and dry mucous membranes. Elevated blood pressure can be influenced by various factors, swelling might indicate other conditions like heart failure or kidney issues, and while increased thirst is a common response to dehydration, it is a subjective sensation that may vary among individuals. Hence, decreased skin turgor or dry mucous membranes serve as more objective clinical markers for dehydration.