CHARLOTTE -- Although causes and treatments for sleep disorders vary, the path to a better night's sleep is being mapped out at Presbyterian Hospital's Sleep Disorder Center in Charlotte.

Dr. Nancy Behrens said the center sees about 10 patients a day and conducts four studies a night, Monday through Friday.

"Most [patients] have insomnia, and another huge problem we see is sleep apnea," Behrens said.

The studies happen in specially equipped rooms built with all the comforts of home – even a private bathroom.

Sleep technician Tracey Strawn said young adults should get at least nine hours of sleep, while adults should get anywhere from six to eight.

But if patients having trouble sleeping have exhausted the traditional home remedies, they can come to the center to get more scientific help. There, the center will conduct a polysomnogram, a comprehensive, all-night test procedure.

After electrodes are attached to patients, technicians and doctors can monitor eye movements, muscle tension and snoring. They use that data to assess the problem.

If it's sleep apnea, doctors can fit patients with a device called a CPAP, which increases air pressure in the throat. Other conditions may be treated with medication.