Epworth Sleepiness Scale

The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is a simple test that allows a person experiencing EDS to evaluate the severity of her or his condition. Answers are rated on a reliable scale called the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, the same assessment tool used by sleep experts worldwide. This test was developed by Dr. Murray Johns at Epworth Hospital in Melbourne, Australia in 1991.

Each item describes a routine daytime situation. Use the scale to rate the likelihood that you would doze off or fall asleep (in contrast to just feeling tired) during that activity. If you haven’t done some of these things recently, consider how you think they would affect you.

This scale should not be used to make your own diagnosis. It is intended as a tool to help you identify your own level of daytime sleepiness, which can be a symptom of a sleep disorder or other medical problem.

Sleep is an important health issue; without proper sleep, the human body cannot function well. Good sleep helps ward off illnesses, helps maintain healthy skin, bones, and muscles, and helps to balance hormones and other important brain and body chemicals.

A score of 10 or higher indicates a possible sleep disorder.

Download the Epworth Sleepiness Scale Form or go to More Than Tired to take the screener online.