German Phrase
Es hilft, die Atemwege offen zu halten.
Meaning
The sentence means “It helps to keep the airways open.” It is often used when talking about medical treatments, breathing exercises, or medications that prevent the airways from narrowing.
When to use
Use this phrase when explaining the benefit of a drug, a breathing technique, or a lifestyle habit that supports clear breathing, especially in contexts like doctor‑patient conversations, health blogs, or fitness coaching.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Eshilft,dieAtemwegeoffenzuhalten.
Impersonal 'es'
The dummy subject 'es' is used when the real subject is an infinitive clause; it does not refer to a specific thing.
Verb 'helfen' + dative
When 'helfen' is followed by an infinitive, the infinitive clause is introduced by 'zu' and the object of the infinitive stays in its normal case (here accusative).
Infinitive clause with 'zu'
The phrase 'die Atemwege offen zu halten' is an infinitive clause that functions as the object of 'hilft'.
Adjective as predicative
The adjective 'offen' describes the state of the airways and is placed before the infinitive verb.
🗨In Conversation
Ich habe Asthma. Was kann ich tun, damit ich besser atme?
I have asthma. What can I do to breathe better?
Es hilft, die Atemwege offen zu halten, indem du regelmäßig inhalierst und deine Medikamente nimmst.
It helps to keep the airways open by inhaling regularly and taking your medication.
✕Common Mistakes
Es hilft die Atemwege offen zu halten.
Do not use 'hilft' with a direct object; it needs the infinitive clause introduced by 'zu'.
Es hilft, die Atemwege zu halten offen.
The adjective must stay before the infinitive; swapping order changes meaning.
Es hilft, die Bronchien offen zu halten.
If you want to refer to a specific part, you could use 'die Bronchien', but 'die Atemwege' is the standard term for the whole airway.
↔Alternatives
Es unterstützt das Offenhalten der Atemwege.
It supports keeping the airways open.
Damit bleiben die Atemwege frei.
That keeps the airways clear.
So bleibt die Atmung ungehindert.
Thus the breathing stays unobstructed.
Cultural Tip
In German medical communication, the impersonal “es” is common when describing a general benefit or effect. Avoid making the statement sound like a personal opinion; keep it factual. Also, note that “Atemwege” refers to the whole respiratory tract, not just the nose, so the phrase is appropriate for asthma, COPD, or post‑surgery care.