Spanish Phrase
Ayuda a mantener las vías respiratorias abiertas.
Meaning
The sentence states that something (a medication, device, or technique) helps keep the airways open, which is crucial for breathing. It is a typical phrase in medical or health‑related contexts.
When to use
Use this phrase when describing the benefit of a treatment, inhaler, breathing exercise, or any intervention that prevents the air passages from becoming blocked. It is common in doctor‑patient conversations, health‑care brochures, and wellness apps.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ayudaamantenerlasvíasrespiratoriasabiertas
Ayuda (verb)
Third‑person singular present of *ayudar*. In impersonal constructions it means ‘helps/it helps’.
a + infinitive
After *ayudar* the preposition *a* introduces the infinitive that expresses the action being helped.
mantener (infinitive)
Infinitive of *mantener* – ‘to keep, to maintain’. It follows *a* and acts as the direct object of *ayuda*.
las vías respiratorias
A plural feminine noun phrase meaning ‘the airways’. Both *vías* and *respiratorias* are feminine, so the article *las* is required.
abiertas (adjective)
Adjective agreeing in gender and number with *vías*. Placed after the noun, it describes the state of the airways.
🗨In Conversation
¿Qué hace este inhalador?
What does this inhaler do?
Ayuda a mantener las vías respiratorias abiertas.
It helps keep the airways open.
✕Common Mistakes
Ayuda a mantener el vías respiratorias abiertas.
The noun *vías* is feminine plural, so the article must be *las*, not *el*.
Ayuda a mantener las vías respiratorias abierto.
Adjective must agree in gender and number with *vías*; use *abiertas*.
Ayuda a mantenerse las vías respiratorias abiertas.
The reflexive form changes the meaning to ‘keep oneself’, which is not intended here.
↔Alternatives
Contribuye a que las vías respiratorias permanezcan abiertas.
It contributes to the airways staying open.
Facilita que las vías respiratorias no se obstruyan.
It makes it easier for the airways not to become blocked.
Permite que las vías respiratorias se mantengan abiertas.
It allows the airways to remain open.
Cultural Tip
In Spanish medical communication a formal register is preferred; *vías respiratorias* is the standard term rather than colloquial expressions like *tuberías de aire*. When speaking to patients, keep the tone reassuring and avoid overly technical jargon unless the audience is health‑professional.