Lincoln, Ill. – For 47‑year‑old resident David Helm, a full night in bed no longer means restless, noisy sleep. After years of using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) mask with limited results, Helm turned to a newer treatment that is now available right here in Lincoln.
From CPAP frustration to implant success
Helm’s wife first noticed his loud snoring and frequent awakenings, prompting a sleep study that diagnosed him with obstructive sleep apnea – a condition where the airway collapses during sleep. For more than ten years Helm relied on a CPAP mask, but he continued to feel fatigued and found the mask uncomfortable.
In early 2026 Helm underwent an outpatient procedure at Lincoln Memorial Hospital to receive the Inspire implant, a device that uses a small stimulator and a thin wire to activate a nerve that controls the tongue. By keeping the tongue from falling back and blocking the airway, the system allows a more natural breathing pattern during sleep.
Noticeable improvement after two months
“About 60 days after the implant, I noticed a big difference,” Helm said. He no longer snores, feels more energized during the day, and his wife can finally sleep through the night without being woken by his breathing.
Lincoln Memorial’s Todd Mourning explained that the implanted stimulator’s battery typically lasts 10 to 12 years before a replacement is needed. Patients must undergo a series of sleep tests and medical evaluations to determine eligibility for the device.
Cost considerations and insurance
While the procedure can be life‑changing, Mourning cautioned that cost and insurance coverage vary. He believes Medicare generally covers the treatment, but he advises patients to verify their individual coverage and eligibility, as out‑of‑pocket expenses can be significant if insurance does not reimburse.
Having the option available locally means fewer trips to distant specialty centers and reduces the logistical burden for patients like Helm. “Not having to travel for all of those doctor’s appointments is huge,” he said.
What this means for Lincoln residents
The availability of the Inspire implant at Lincoln Memorial adds a valuable tool for the community’s fight against sleep apnea, a condition that affects millions of Americans and can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Local physicians say early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for improving quality of life and reducing long‑term health risks.
For residents interested in learning more, Lincoln Memorial Hospital encourages anyone experiencing chronic snoring, daytime fatigue, or breathing pauses during sleep to schedule a consultation. The hospital’s sleep‑medicine team can assess whether the Inspire implant or other therapies are appropriate.
Original reporting: Capitol City Now (WTAX 1240 Springfield) — read the source article.
