What condition does Helium manage in severe cases?

Helium is used in medical settings primarily to manage airway obstruction, particularly in severe cases. When helium is inhaled, it provides an advantage due to its low density, which allows it to facilitate easier breathing. This is especially beneficial in patients who may have narrows or obstructed airways because the lighter helium gas can help reduce the work of breathing and enhance airflow. In situations such as asthma exacerbations or other forms of airway obstruction, helium can be mixed with oxygen to improve ventilation.

The other conditions—such as asthma, cardiac arrest, and pneumonia—do not directly benefit from helium therapy in the same way; typically, asthma is managed with bronchodilators, cardiac arrest requires immediate resuscitation, and pneumonia treatment often involves antibiotics or supportive care. Thus, helium’s role is specifically focused on alleviating issues related to airway obstruction, making it the most appropriate answer in this context.