Adult and Peri-Operative Sleep Disorder Patients

Adult Sleep Disorders

  • Insomnia
  • Sleep Apnea
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
  • Narcolepsy
  • Restless Legs Syndrome
  • Idiopathic hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness that occurs without an identifiable cause)
  • Periodic limb movement disorder
  • Shift work sleep disorder
  • Jet lag syndrome
  • Sleep Walking

Since sleep disorders cause disruptions in sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue can make daily routines and activities both difficult and dangerous to yourself and others.

Effects of Excessive Daytime Sleepiness or EDS

  • Risk for automotive and industrial accidents
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Poor work performance
  • Poor interpersonal communication
  • Difficulty establishing and maintaining relationships
  • Irritability
  • Decreased sexual desire

Should you have a sleep disorder diagnosis?

  • Are you scheduled for any surgical procedure? Untreated sleep disorders, especially sleep apnea, increase the likelihood of surgical complications.
  • Are you a truck driver? Truck drivers are now subject to stricter regulations regarding driving while sleepy.
  • Are you a teacher? Teachers must stay alert throughout the day.
  • Do you have any of the following conditions:
    • Diabetes
    • Cardiovascular disease
    • Aching legs
    • Menopause
    • Depression
    • Pulmonary disease
    • Frequent nocturnal urination

Epworth Sleepiness Scale

Many sleep disorders are associated with excessive daytime sleepiness. 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.

Use the following scale to choose the most appropriate number for each situation:

0 = would never doze or sleep.
1 = slight chance of dozing or sleeping
2 = moderate chance of dozing or sleeping
3 = high chance of dozing or sleeping

Situation Chance of Dozing or Sleeping
Sitting and reading ____
Watching TV ____
Sitting inactive in a public place ____
Being a passenger in a motor vehicle for an hour or more ____
Lying down in the afternoon ____
Sitting and talking to someone ____
Sitting quietly after lunch (no alcohol) ____
Stopped for a few minutes in traffic

while driving

 ____
Total score (add the scores up)

(This is your Epworth score)

 ____

Print out this test, fill in your answers and see where you stand.