Epworth Sleepiness Scale
The Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) is a scale intended to measure daytime sleepiness that is measured by use of a very short questionnaire. This can be helpful in diagnosing sleep disorders. It was introduced in 1991 by Dr Murray Johns of Epworth Hospital in Melbourne, Australia
The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is a “test” based on a patient’s own report that establishes the severity of sleepiness. A person rates the likelihood of falling asleep during specific activities. Using the scale from 0-3 below, patients rank their risk of dozing in the chart below. (This chart can be printed out and taken to the doctor.)
Use the following scale to choose the most appropriate number for each situation:
0 = would never doze or sleep.
1 = slight chance of dozing or sleeping
2 = moderate chance of dozing or sleeping
3 = high chance of dozing or sleeping
Print out this test, fill in your answers and see where you stand.
Situation Chance of Dozing or Sleeping
Sitting and reading ____
Watching TV ____
Sitting inactive in a public place ____
Being a passenger in a motor vehicle for an hour or more ____
Lying down in the afternoon ____
Sitting and talking to someone ____
Sitting quietly after lunch (no alcohol) ____
Stopped for a few minutes in traffic
while driving ____
Total score (add the scores up)
(This is your Epworth score) ____
After ranking each category, the total score is calculated. The range is 0-24, with the higher the score the more sleepiness.
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 personal physician.
Scoring:
• 0-9 = Average daytime sleepiness
• 10-15 = Excessive daytime sleepiness
• 16-24 = Moderate to severe daytime sleepiness
Breaking it down further, excessive daytime sleepiness is greater than 10. Primary snorers usually have a score less than 10, and individuals with moderate to severe sleep apnea usually have a score greater than 16.
Sleep Diary
I have seen patients bringing a very good sleep diary, made by their spouse/partner. This gives very good information to treating doctors.
Voice recording
Most people are not very happy to go to undergo sleep lab study; hence portable sleep study monitors are available so that you can, record it at home, more comfortably.
Those who have a laptop/PC, the voice-video recording while asleep can be made. This is also very simple.
Dr Paulose is an ENT Consultant Plastic and Laser Surgeon with over 35 years of experience covering in Ear, Nose and Throat procedures, specializing in Laser Surgery and conventional medicine across India, U.K. and Middle East. He is currently engaged with the Jubilee Hospital, in Kerala, India.
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