What is an important patient education tip for those using inhaled corticosteroids?

Inhaled corticosteroids are a cornerstone treatment for chronic respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD, functioning by reducing inflammation in the airways. One critical aspect of patient education while using these medications is the importance of oral hygiene, particularly the recommendation to rinse the mouth after each use.

Rinsing the mouth helps to remove any residual medication that may linger in the oral cavity, greatly reducing the risk of developing oral thrush, a fungal infection that can occur due to the steroid components of the inhaler. This is particularly important because inhaled corticosteroids can disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms in the mouth, leading to an overgrowth of Candida species, which causes oral thrush. Therefore, proper mouth care after inhalation is essential for maintaining oral health and preventing complications.

Other options may lead to poor management of the respiratory condition or increase the risks associated with inhaled corticosteroid use.