Helium is useful in respiratory disorders where it can reduce the work of
breathing. Helium, along with oxygen (Heliox) can be given to such patients.
Helium has a lower density.
This means that, according to the equation, the lower density of Helium is
likely to favour a reduction of the Reynolds number to below 2000 and
thereby promote laminar flow. Laminar flow makes it easier for the patient to
breath since for a given pressure difference, laminar flow is higher than
turbulent flow.
