Which type of medication is the first-line treatment for nasal congestion?

Beclomethasone is an inhaled corticosteroid commonly used for the treatment of asthma. One of the potential side effects of inhaled corticosteroids is oral candidiasis, also known as thrush. Rinsing the mouth with water after each administration helps to reduce the risk of developing thrush by removing any residual medication from the mouth and throat.

The other options listed are not specific instructions for inhaled beclomethasone:
A. Check the pulse after medication administration: While it is important to monitor vital signs, such as pulse, in certain situations, checking the pulse after inhaled beclomethasone administration is not a specific instruction for this medication.

B. Limit caffeine intake: There is no specific need to limit caffeine intake when taking inhaled beclomethasone. However, it is generally advisable to discuss dietary considerations, including caffeine, with a healthcare provider, as individual factors and medication interactions can vary.

C. Take the medication with meals: Inhaled beclomethasone is usually taken as prescribed by the healthcare provider, and the timing of administration with meals is not typically specified.
However, it is important for the client to follow the specific instructions provided by their healthcare provider regarding the timing and frequency of inhaled medication administration.

Expectorants are medications that help to loosen and thin mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier to cough up and expel. They work by increasing the production of respiratory tract secretions, which helps to hydrate and thin the mucus, making it less sticky and easier to clear from the airways. By stimulating the production and secretion of mucus, expectorants promote coughing and facilitate the removal of excess mucus and phlegm from the respiratory system.

It's important to note that expectorants are primarily used for productive coughs (coughs that produce phlegm or mucus). If the cough is dry and non-productive, other types of cough suppressants or remedies may be more appropriate.

Regarding the other options:

Reduces inflammation: Expectorants do not have a direct effect on reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract. Anti-inflammatory medications such as glucocorticoids are typically used for reducing inflammation in conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Dries mucous membranes: Expectorants do not have a drying effect on mucous membranes. In fact, they work to increase the hydration and fluidity of respiratory secretions.

Suppresses the urge to cough: Expectorants do not suppress the urge to cough. They promote coughing by facilitating the clearance of mucus and phlegm from the airways. Cough suppressants, on the other hand, are medications used to relieve a dry, non-productive cough by suppressing the cough reflex.