Final answer:
It is recommended to stop using nasal decongestants for 7 days to avoid rebound congestion, which occurs when congestion worsens after prolonged use of these medications. This helps prevent a cycle of worsening congestion and increased medication use.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is recommended to discontinue nasal decongestants for 7 days primarily to avoid rebound congestion, which is also known as rhinitis medicamentosa. This is a condition where nasal congestion reoccurs or even worsens after using decongestants for several days. Continued use of nasal decongestants can lead to a vicious cycle where more medication is needed to alleviate the congestion, making it more difficult to discontinue use. The other options listed do not accurately describe the main reason for discontinuing decongestants; addiction and building tolerance are less common, and minimizing side effects is too broad a statement without specifying rebound congestion.
Regarding the reference information given, when air is warmed and humidified in the nasal passages, it serves several important functions. One of those is to ward off infection by trapping pathogens and particulate matter, another is to decrease sensitivity during breathing by ensuring the air is at a suitable temperature and moisture level, and lastly, it helps prevent damage to the lungs from cold or dry air. Therefore, the correct answer would be 'd. all of the above' as these are all beneficial effects of the nasal passages warming and humidifying the air.