• they have fallen asleep at the wheel of the car, or have nearly done so.
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OSA Questionnaires

The Epworth Sleepiness Scale

The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is an on-line questionnaire which will help you decide if you have a sleep problem.

Some of us know friends or family who think we may have a sleep problem - or we may know someone else who does.  You don't have to feel lousy, sleepy, or tired, but you could be in danger of losing your health, years of productivity and happiness, and your life.

Try out this questionnaire; it may be helpful.  It is designed to help you to recognize possible sleep apnoea so that you are more aware and can then start to investigate treatment for your symptoms.

This questionnaire alone is not the basis for diagnosing sleep apnoea or a medical condition.  Read on below the test to find out the next steps.

The Epworth Sleepiness Scale


How likely are you to doze off or fall asleep in the following situations in contrast to just feeling tired?  Even if you have not 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.

Key:
0 = would never doze
1 = slight chance of dozing
2 = moderate chance of dozing
3 = high chance of dozing.
Situation    0     1     2     3
Sitting and reading
Watching TV
Sitting inactive in a public place (eg. theatre or at 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 lunch without alcohol
In a car, while stopped for a few minutes in traffic

    Your Score  

A score of 12 or above suggests excessive daytime sleepiness and should be followed up with your doctor, especially if the person concerned also fits into any of the following categories:    

• they appear to stop breathing during the night
• they snore (extremely loudly; interestingly this is known as ‘heroic snoring’)
• they gasp or choke during the night
• they work shifts or at night
• they have fallen asleep at the wheel of the car, or have nearly done so.


What do I do next?

The Epworth Sleepiness Scale Test can also help you recognise possible sleep apnoea.
» The SAANZ test

How can I be sure if I do --- or don't have it? For further information about what to do if you suspect you have sleep apnoea, please click on the links below.
» What can I do about sleep apnoea?
» Are there other sleep disorders?

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