Excessive daytime sleepiness is the symptom that most clearly predicts benefit from CPAP, and the one with the most direct danger to others. Patients often under-report it, and standard questionnaires do not ask specifically about driving.
A direct question about nodding off at the wheel or near-misses is quick, and the answer changes urgency of assessment and advice.
- Ask directly about falling asleep or near-misses while driving.
- Use the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, but do not rely on a low score if the history suggests sleepiness.
- Advise patients who are sleepy at the wheel not to drive until treated and reassessed.
- Prioritise commercial and professional drivers for rapid diagnosis and treatment.
Why it matters
Sleepiness at the wheel is the most dangerous consequence of untreated sleep apnoea, and the most treatable.
Read the rest in the app
You have read your two free briefings this month. The app carries all 27 specialties, every morning, free — and this finding is waiting in it.
Scan to keep reading on your phone. No account needed to start.
Tomorrow morning, before your first patient
One edition a day for pulmonology, written by the desk, every claim tied to its paper. Six minutes.
Get the app — free