Diagnosis of Sleep Apnoea (Last updated on 27 January 2026 – addition of BBC article.)

If so, you may well have obstructive sleep apnoea

Complete the Epworth Sleepiness Scale
If you score is 10 or over, you may have a sleep disorder. Book an appointment with your GP, take your Epworth Sleepiness Scale completed assessment form with you and discuss possible referral to an NHS Sleep Clinic.

Complete the Stop Bang questionnaire which helps you to assess the risk you have of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.
STOP BANG gets you to assess the following:
S=Snoring, T=Tiredness, O=Observed, P=Pressure (Blood), B=BMI (Body Mass Index) A=Age, N=Neck, G=Gender.
If your score is 3 or over take the completed form to your GP and discuss possible referral to an NHS Sleep Clinic.

For more information about sleep apnoea and its treatment with CPAP take a look at our What is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea leaflet.

Download and print this patient information sheet and take to your GP if you think you have OSA.

See also this BBC article with video (published 24 January 2026): I snore – but didnt’ know I stop breathing 10  times an hour in my sleep .

We also publish a range of informative leaflets, which can easily be downloaded here. They are also available as A4 patie Save nt information sheets for simple home printing.

NHS treatment for people from abroad has changed since leaving the EU, so please refer to this link to find out whether or not you may be charged:

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/health/help-with-health-costs/nhs-charges-for-people-from-abroad/

If you are awaiting a Sleep Study to confirm diagnosis of Sleep Apnoea or have been newly diagnosed, the information on these pages will help you understand the diagnostic process and treatment. It does not replace the guidance and advice you should seek from your Medical Professional. The Glossary of Terms may help you understand some of the words that may be used

There is also information on how Sleep Apnoea can affect your ability and eligibility to drive. The authority on driving in the UK is the DVLA whose website should always be consulted for the latest position But a more understandable interpretation of the rules can be obtained from this website.

Please make your selection below:

Frequently Asked Questions
Treatment of Sleep Apnoea
Glossary of Terms