Epworth Sleepiness Scale
Daytime Sleepiness Screening
Validated 8-question screener for excessive daytime sleepiness — flags possible sleep disorders.
About the Epworth Sleepiness Scale
Unlike fatigue scales that measure how tired you feel, the ESS specifically measures your propensity to fall asleep — the likelihood of actually dozing off in real-world situations. This makes it particularly useful for identifying conditions like sleep apnea, where people may not realize they are excessively sleepy.
When to Seek Help
If your ESS score is 11 or higher, consider speaking with your healthcare provider. They may recommend a sleep study (polysomnography) to evaluate for sleep apnea or other sleep disorders. Untreated excessive daytime sleepiness significantly increases the risk of motor vehicle accidents and workplace injuries.
ESS Score Interpretation
| Score | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 0-5 | Lower normal daytime sleepiness |
| 6-10 | Higher normal daytime sleepiness |
| 11-12 | Mild excessive daytime sleepiness |
| 13-15 | Moderate excessive daytime sleepiness |
| 16-17 | Severe excessive daytime sleepiness |
| 18-24 | Very severe excessive daytime sleepiness |
Medical Disclaimer
This screening tool is for informational purposes only. It does not diagnose sleep disorders. If your score indicates excessive daytime sleepiness, consult a healthcare provider or sleep specialist for proper evaluation.