Epworth Sleepiness Scale
Score the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) — a validated 8-question screening for daytime sleepiness.
What is Epworth Sleepiness Scale?
The Epworth Sleepiness Scale was developed in 1991 by Murray Johns at Epworth Hospital, Melbourne. It asks how likely you are to doze off in 8 everyday situations, scoring 0 (would never) to 3 (high chance) for each. Total scores ≥ 11 suggest excessive daytime sleepiness that warrants further evaluation.
How is it calculated?
Total = sum of 8 question scores (0–24). Bands: 0–9 normal, 10–12 mild, 13–15 moderate, 16–24 severe.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is ESS diagnostic?
- No — it is a screening tool. High scores warrant a sleep study.
- How honest should I be?
- Very. Underestimating sleepiness is a common pitfall.
- Does ESS detect insomnia?
- Indirectly. It measures daytime sleepiness, which insomnia often causes.