Sleep Apnea Self-Assessment: Epworth Sleepiness Scale Test

Q: What is a normal Epworth Sleepiness Scale score?

Scores of 0 to 7 are normal, while 10 or higher suggests excessive daytime sleepiness requiring a doctor's evaluation.

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Eslampour
TMJ & Sleep Apnea Center — Serving San Marcos, Carlsbad, Encinitas, and Greater San Diego County

Constant fatigue can stem from many factors, though chronic sleepiness is a primary warning sign for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Medical professionals use the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) to evaluate daytime exhaustion.

For symptoms like snoring or morning headaches, this assessment serves as an initial step. While a formal diagnosis requires a physician-supervised sleep study, our San Marcos practice offers non-surgical oral appliance therapy to address airway collapse post-diagnosis.

Take the quick screening survey below to evaluate your sleep health today.

Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS)

How likely are you to doze off or fall asleep in the following situations, in contrast to feeling just tired? This refers to your usual way of life in recent times.

Scale: 0 = would never doze | 1 = slight chance | 2 = moderate chance | 3 = high chance

1. Sitting and reading

0 1 2 3

2. Watching TV

0 1 2 3

3. Sitting, inactive in a public place (e.g. a theatre or a meeting)

0 1 2 3

4. As a passenger in a car for an hour without a break

0 1 2 3

5. Lying down to rest in the afternoon when circumstances permit

0 1 2 3

6. Sitting and talking to someone

0 1 2 3

7. Sitting quietly after a lunch without alcohol

0 1 2 3

8. In a car, while stopped for a few minutes in traffic

0 1 2 3

Disclaimer: The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is a validated screening questionnaire for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute a medical diagnosis. Consult a qualified physician for a formal sleep study.

Understanding Your Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) Score

The ESS scores general daytime sleepiness from 0 to 24:

0–7 (Normal Daytime Sleepiness): Unlikely to indicate abnormal daytime fatigue. Persistent loud snoring may warrant our Snoring Self-Assessment Survey.
8–9 (Mild Excessive Daytime Sleepiness): Average daytime sleepiness; track sleep hygiene and symptoms like morning headaches.
10–15 (Moderate Excessive Daytime Sleepiness): Noticeable fatigue likely caused by fragmented sleep; consult a healthcare provider or sleep specialist.
16–24 (Severe Excessive Daytime Sleepiness): High-level drowsiness affecting focus, cardiovascular health, and driving safety; seek a prompt evaluation.

A Comfortable Alternative to CPAP in San Marcos

For patients with mild-to-moderate OSA or those intolerant of CPAP, custom oral appliance therapy provides an FDA-cleared, non-invasive alternative. Dr. Eslampour at TMJ & Sleep Apnea Center custom-crafts mandibular advancement devices to gently advance the lower jaw and maintain an open airway during sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea & Testing

What is a normal Epworth Sleepiness Scale score?

Scores of 0 to 7 are normal, while 10 or higher suggests excessive daytime sleepiness requiring a doctor's evaluation.

Can I be tested for sleep apnea at home?

Yes, a board-certified sleep physician can often prescribe a Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT). Our team can help coordinate testing and review results.