Question
Why does my son feel dizzy upon waking up in the morning, sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting?
Answer
This situation is quite common in school-aged children and is known as “orthostatic dysregulation.” It typically occurs in students aged 7 to 12, with approximately 10% to 15% of school-aged children experiencing this issue. This condition not only causes dizziness upon waking up but may also lead to difficulty waking up, slow movements, pale complexion, and symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. During physical education classes or when standing for extended periods, children may feel dizzy, have blurred vision, chest tightness, and palpitations; some may dislike physical activities due to shortness of breath after slight exertion; others may easily get carsick and dislike rides such as carousels, Ferris wheels, swings, and merry-go-rounds at playgrounds. In rare cases, a child may suddenly faint and fall upon waking up, but the symptoms usually disappear after a short rest.