Which medical condition could benefit from the use of Helium in therapy?

The use of helium in therapy is particularly beneficial in conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) because of its physical properties. Helium is a low-density gas, which means that it has a lower viscosity compared to other gases like oxygen. This characteristics allows for easier flow through narrowed airways, which can be particularly advantageous in patients with COPD who may experience airway obstruction or narrowing due to conditions like chronic bronchitis or emphysema.

In COPD, the reduced flow resistance provided by helium can improve ventilation and reduce the work of breathing, thus enhancing gas exchange in the lungs. Medical professionals sometimes use helium in combination with oxygen—referred to as heliox— to deliver a mixture that is less dense than ambient air, thereby making it easier for patients with obstructive conditions to breathe. This combination helps to alleviate respiratory distress and can enhance the overall management of the condition.

While asthma and sleep apnea also involve respiratory challenges, they are not specifically treated with helium therapy in the same way COPD is. Therefore, the application of helium in therapeutic settings is most clearly aligned with the management of COPD.