Sleep Assessment

How Sleepy Are You?

The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is used to determine the level of daytime sleepiness. A score of 10 or more is considered sleepy. A score of 18 or more is very sleepy. If you score 10 or more on this test, you should consider whether you are obtaining adequate sleep, need to improve your sleep hygiene and/or need to see a sleep specialist. These issues should be discussed with your primary care provider.

How likely are you to doze off or fall asleep in the situations described below, in contrast to feeling just tired? This refers to your usual way of life in recent times. Even if you haven't done some of these things recently try to work out how they would have affected you.

 

Use the following scale to choose the most appropriate number for each situation:

0 = Would never doze

1 = Slight chance of dozing

2 = Moderate chance of dozing

3 = High chance of dozing

 

Situation                                                                                            Chance of dozing

Sitting and reading                                                                                       _____

Watching TV                                                                                                _____

Sitting, inactive in a public place (e.g. a theatre or a meeting)                    _____

As a passenger in a car for an hour without a break                                   _____

Lying down to rest in the afternoon when circumstances permit                 _____

Sitting and talking to someone                                                                     _____

Sitting quietly after a lunch without alcohol                                                  _____

In a car, while stopped for a few minutes in the traffic                                 _____

                                                                                                Total:            ______

Score:

0-10 Normal range                           10-12 Borderline                               12-24 Abnormal

 

 

Getting a good night’s sleep can have many benefits.

  • You will be less likely to get sick.
  • You will be more likely to stay at a healthy weight.
  • You can lower your risk of high blood pressure and diabetes.
  • You can boost your brainpower and your mood.
  • You can think more clearly and do better in school and at work.
  • You can make better decisions and avoid injuries. For example, sleepy drivers cause thousands of car crashes every year.