How to Tell If Somebody Is Asleep

The number of hours someone needs to sleep is dependent on age.

Sometimes it is difficult to tell if they are actually asleep, unconscious or if they are just resting. You can tell if someone is asleep by paying attention to several traits.

Instructions

1. Place your hand in front of the person's mouth to feel if they are breathing. You can also check for a person's pulse by placing your fingers on their wrist. If you cannot feel a pulse or breathing, then you should immediately dial 911.

2. Listen for snoring. According to the Mayo Clinic, nearly half of all adults snore during their sleep.

3. Look for drool. Sometimes when people sleep, they fall asleep with their mouth open. Check the person's pillow for any wet marks.

4. Check if the person's eyes are closed. Unless the person has a serious sleeping disorder, it is extremely unlikely that they are sleeping with their eyes open.

Tips & Warnings

• Many people can take naps while sitting. Sleeping while standing or walking is rare and likely means that the person has a sleeping disorder.

• Seek medical help if you believe that you or someone you know has a sleeping disorder.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Snoring
• Esquire: How to Stop Drooling in Your Sleep
• Mayo Clinic: Sleep Guidlines
• Sleep Disorders Help: Sleep With Your Eyes Open

Resources

• Your Pulse and Target Heart Rate