What advantage does Heliox have compared to 100% O2 in treating respiratory distress?

Heliox is a mixture of helium and oxygen that offers distinct advantages in the management of respiratory distress, primarily because it reduces the density of the gas being inhaled. The decrease in density allows for smoother flow of gases through the airways, which can significantly reduce turbulence during respiration. This is particularly beneficial in conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), where turbulent airflow can exacerbate breathing difficulties. By minimizing turbulence, heliox can improve airflow and decrease the work of breathing, providing a therapeutic benefit in acute respiratory distress situations.

While increasing oxygen saturation, improving lung compliance, or enhancing gas exchange efficiency may have roles in other forms of respiratory therapy, these factors are not the primary benefits of prescribing heliox. The key advantage lies in the unique properties of the gas mixture itself, which directly addresses airflow dynamics and resistance in the airway, making it especially useful for patients experiencing severe respiratory distress.