Screening Tool for Symptomatic Sleep Apnoea
This algorithm scores the results of two questionnaires and was primarily designed to assess the likely presence of obstructive sleep apnoea causing symptoms (or the presence of significant excessive sleepiness). It was primarily designed to rapidly score a driver screening questionnaire, but can be used outside this scenario with appropriate caution. One of the questionnaires assesses whether sleep apnoea might be present (STOPBANG), and the other assesses whether there is any excessive daytime sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale). Each questionnaire is scored into three classes (low, medium, high), If the score on either one or the other questionnaire is high, or the scores on both questionnaires are medium or high, then there may be a significant sleep disorder present (such as obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome) and further assessment may be appropriate. As with many simple screening systems, it is not perfect and may sometimes be wrong. Therefore, if there are concerns, then a consultation with a GP or sleep specialist is advised.
Calculate your STOPBANG Score below:
This questionnaire assesses whether sleep apnoea might be a problem. Answer yes or no by clicking on the relevant button. The last question is about the overweight index, or BMI, and can be calculated in any units, just choose the right box for the units used.
Do you Snore Loudly (loud enough to be heard through closed doors or your bed-partner elbows you for snoring at night)? | |
Do you often feel Tired, Fatigued, or Sleepy during the daytime (such as falling asleep during driving or talking to someone)? | |
Has anyone Observed you Stop Breathing or Choking/Gasping during your sleep? | |
Do you have or are being treated for High Blood Pressure? | |
Are you older than 50 years? | |
Gender |
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Is your neck/collar size 17 inches or larger? | |
Is your BMI over 35 kg/m2? |
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Calculate your Epworth Sleepiness Score below:
This questionnaire estimates your usual level of any sleepiness.- How likely are you to doze off or fall asleep in the situations described in the boxes below, in contrast to feeling just tired?
- This refers to your usual way of life in recent times.
- Even if you haven't done some of these things recently try to work out how they would have affected you.
- Use the following scale to choose the most appropriate selection for each situation.
Would never doze | Slight chance of dozing | Moderate chance of dozing | High chance of dozing | |
Sitting and reading. | ||||
Watching TV. | ||||
Sitting inactive in a public place (e.g. a theatre or a meeting). | ||||
As a passenger in a car for an hour without a break. | ||||
Lying down to rest in the afternoon when circumstances permit. | ||||
Sitting and talking to someone. | ||||
Sitting quietly after a lunch without alcohol. | ||||
In a car, while stopped for a few minutes in the traffic. |