Drink plenty of water
Use warm fluids like tea or broth
Inhale steam from a hot shower or bowl of hot water
Use a humidifier
Gargle with warm salt water
Try saline nasal spray or rinse
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
Limit exposure to dust, strong odors, and allergens
Sleep with your head elevated
Use over-the-counter expectorants if appropriate
Cough gently to help clear mucus
Stay active with light movement
Eat spicy foods if tolerated
Seek medical care if mucus is thick, bloody, persistent, or comes with trouble breathing