Epworth Sleepiness Scale

The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is used to diagnose obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).

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Epworth Sleepiness Scale

If you suspect you might have OSA, answer the following questions and take your answers to your GP.

How likely are you to doze off or fall asleep in the following situations, in comparison 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

It's important that you answer each question as best you can.

Situation Chance of dozing

Sitting and reading

Watching TV

Sitting still in a public place (e.g. a theatre, a cinema or a meeting)

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

Lying down to rest in the afternoon when the circumstances allow

Sitting and talking to someone

Sitting quietly after lunch without having drunk alcohol

In a car or bus while stopped for a few minutes in traffic

Total

What does my score mean?

Talk to your GP about your circumstances.  

Scores can be interpreted as follows:

  • 0-5 lower normal daytime sleepiness
  • 6-10 normal daytime sleepiness
  • 11-12 mild excessive daytime symptoms
  • 13-15 moderate excessive daytime symptoms
  • 16-24 severe excessive daytime symptoms

Copyright N.W. Johns 1990-1997. Used under license. Sample copy - do not use without permission. Contact information and permission to use: Mapi Research Trust, Lyon, France. Available at: https://eprovide.mapi-trust.org

Reference: Dr Johns’ personal website about the ESS. Available at: http://epworthsleepinessscale.com/about-the-ess/. Accessed November 21, 2011.

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Copyright N.W. Johns 1990-1997. Used under license. Sample copy - do not use without permission. Contact information and permission to use: Mapi Research Trust, Lyon, France. Available at: https://eprovide.mapi-trust.org

Reference: Dr Johns’ personal website about the ESS. Available at: http://epworthsleepinessscale.com/about-the-ess/. Accessed November 21, 2011.