The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is used to determine the level of daytime sleepiness. A score of 10 or more is considered sleepy. A score of 18 or more is very sleepy. If you score 10 or more on this test, you should consider whether you are obtaining adequate sleep, need to improve your sleep hygiene and/or need to see a sleep specialist. These issues should be discussed with your medical professional. Use the following scale to choose the most appropriate number for each situation:
Snoring affects approximately 90 million American adults and is a common problem among all ages and both genders. It can cause disruptions to your own sleep and your bed-partner’s sleep. It can lead to fragmented and un-refreshing sleep which translates into poor daytime function (tiredness and sleepiness). The two most common adverse health effects that are linked to snoring are daytime dysfunction and heart disease. About one-half of people who snore loudly have Obstructive Sleep Apnea. For details on how we can help you, see Patient Info.
“Sleep-deprived drivers cause more than 6,400 deaths and 50,000 debilitating injuries on American roadways each year.” said Charles A. Czeisler, PhD, MD who is working with the National Sleep Foundation on its Drowsy Driving Consensus Panel. If your quality of sleep is compromised due to an issue such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) you are putting yourself and others at risk every time you get behind the wheel. Drowsy Driving is Dangerous! Get out of danger – see Patient Info to take your next steps!
If you are having problems sleeping, the National Sleep Foundation suggests the following to improve your sleep: Set and stick to a sleep schedule. Go to bed and wake up at the same times each day. Expose yourself to bright light in the morning and avoid it at night. Exposure to bright morning light energizes us and prepares us for a productive day. Alternatively, dim your lights when it’s close to bedtime. Exercise regularly. Exercise in the morning can help you get the light exposure you need to set your biological clock. Avoid vigorous exercise close to bedtime if you …