Epworth Sleepiness Scale Calculator
Assess your level of daytime sleepiness and screen for sleep disorders with this validated questionnaire
Epworth Sleepiness Scale Questionnaire
Instructions
Rate how likely you are to doze off or fall asleep in the following situations, in contrast to feeling just tired. Even if you haven't done some of these things recently, try to work out how they would have affected you.
1. Sitting and reading
2. Watching TV
3. Sitting inactive in a public place (e.g., meeting, theater)
4. As a passenger in a car for an hour without a break
5. Lying down to rest in the afternoon when circumstances permit
6. Sitting and talking to someone
7. Sitting quietly after a lunch without alcohol
8. In a car, while stopped for a few minutes in traffic
Your ESS Score & Interpretation
Score Breakdown
Reading: 0
Watching TV: 0
Public place: 0
Car passenger: 0
Lying down: 0
Talking: 0
After lunch: 0
In traffic: 0
Recommendation
Your sleepiness levels are within normal range. Continue maintaining healthy sleep habits.
Example: Understanding Your Score
Normal Range (ESS 0-10)
Most healthy adults score between 2-10. Occasional sleepiness in boring situations is normal.
Elevated Score (ESS 11+)
Scores above 10 suggest excessive daytime sleepiness. Common causes include sleep apnea, narcolepsy, insufficient sleep, or other sleep disorders.
High Score (ESS 16+)
Very high scores indicate severe sleepiness that significantly impacts daily functioning and safety. Immediate medical evaluation is strongly recommended.
ESS Score Interpretation
Associated Sleep Disorders
Sleep Apnea
Breathing interruptions during sleep
Narcolepsy
Sudden sleep attacks during day
Restless Leg Syndrome
Uncomfortable leg sensations
Depression
Mood disorder affecting sleep
Medication Effects
Side effects causing sleepiness
When to Seek Medical Help
ESS score above 10
Falling asleep while driving
Sleepiness affecting work
Uncontrollable daytime naps
Loud snoring or breathing pauses
Understanding the Epworth Sleepiness Scale
What is the ESS?
The Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) is a validated self-administered questionnaire developed by Dr. Murray Johns in 1991. It measures general level of daytime sleepiness and is widely used by sleep medicine specialists to screen for sleep disorders.
How It Works
- •8 questions about likelihood of dozing in specific situations
- •Each question scored 0-3 points (total range: 0-24)
- •Higher scores indicate greater daytime sleepiness
- •Validated across multiple populations and age groups
Clinical Applications
Primary Uses:
- • Sleep disorder screening
- • Treatment monitoring
- • Research assessments
- • Occupational health evaluations
Important Considerations
- Not a diagnosis: ESS screens for sleepiness, not specific disorders
- Context matters: Consider work schedules, medications, lifestyle
- Cultural factors: Some situations may not apply to all individuals
- Professional interpretation: High scores require medical evaluation
💡 Research shows: ESS scores correlate well with objective sleep tests and are predictive of sleep disorder severity.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This Epworth Sleepiness Scale calculator is for educational and screening purposes only. It should not replace professional medical evaluation or diagnosis. The ESS is a screening tool, not a diagnostic test. If you have concerns about excessive daytime sleepiness, sleep disorders, or if your ESS score is elevated, consult with a healthcare provider or sleep medicine specialist. Various factors including medications, shift work, and medical conditions can affect sleepiness levels and should be considered in professional evaluation.