Excessive Daytime Somnolence
Excessive Daytime Somnolence (EDS)
Excessive daytime somnolence (EDS) or sleepiness is a condition that can affect a worker’s alertness on the job. Studies show that approximately 16% of men and 22% of women report experiencing this condition. If poorly managed or untreated, it can lead to a loss of productivity and a greater risk of accidents.
Sleepiness Versus Fatigue
Although in everyday conversations the terms "sleepiness" and "fatigue" are used interchangeably, medically they have two different meanings.
- Fatigue is the decreased capability of doing physical or mental work or the subjective mental or physical state in which one can no longer perform a task effectively.
- Sleepiness is reduced alertness as a result of increased pressure to fall asleep. It is characterized by a tendency to fall asleep and is the unavoidable consequence of the unsatisfied need to sleep. Individuals do not always recognize the onset of sleep or the deleterious effects of sleepiness.
Common Risk Factors
Evidence shows that the following factors can contribute to EDS or sleepiness:
- Working during low points in the circadian rhythm (the normal cycle of the human body)
- Inadequate sleep
- Irregular work hours
- Inadequate rest breaks or facilities
- Disorders such as sleep apnea or narcolepsy
EDS in Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Drivers
EDS lasting from a few days to a few weeks should not limit a driver's ability in the long run. However, persistent or chronic sleep disorders causing EDS can be a significant risk for the driver and the public. Ultimately, the best decision can be made upon conducting a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) physical examination.- During a FMCSA exam, the physician will gather a medical history by questioning the driver about sleep disorders, pauses in breathing while sleeping, daytime sleepiness, and loud snoring.
- A physical examination will also evaluate a driver’s general health, including factors such as weight (being overweight) and irremediable mouth and throat deficiencies likely to interfere with breathing or swallowing.
Your Occupational Medicine Experts
As a leading provider of occupational health services, Concentra can work with you to develop a comprehensive approach to preventing, treating, and managing excessive daytime somnolence (EDS) or sleepiness. Our on-site consulting and training experts experts can help you identify risks and implement effective training and prevention programs. Diagnostic examinations and treatment of underlying medical conditions or sleep disorders can also be addressed at any of our more than 320 walk-in clinics–or through the use of custom solutions, such as on-site clinics or mobile medical units.
