Drink plenty of warm fluids
Rest as much as possible
Use honey for adults and children over 1 year old
Gargle with warm salt water
Use a humidifier or inhale steam
Avoid smoke, dust, and strong odors
Try lozenges or throat candies
Take over-the-counter cough medicine if appropriate
Use saline nasal spray if postnasal drip is causing the cough
Keep your head elevated while sleeping
Wash your hands regularly
See a doctor if the cough lasts more than 3 weeks
See a doctor if you have fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing blood