Athletic Training Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common symptom of dehydration in athletes?

1. Improved mental clarity

2. Increased endurance

3. Decreased urine output

4. Enhanced recovery time

The correct answer is: Decreased urine output

Dehydration in athletes leads to several physiological changes in the body, one of the most notable being decreased urine output. When the body is dehydrated, it conserves water to maintain essential physiological functions, which results in less urine being produced. This is an important mechanism that the body employs to prevent further fluid loss and maintain hydration levels, especially during physical exertion. In contrast, improved mental clarity and increased endurance are not associated with dehydration. On the contrary, dehydration can lead to cognitive impairments and diminished physical performance. Enhanced recovery time similarly does not occur during dehydration; rather, dehydration can prolong recovery due to inadequate nutrient and fluid transport to the muscles. Therefore, decreased urine output clearly stands out as a common and indicative symptom of dehydration in athletes.