Drink plenty of water and warm fluids
Rest as much as possible
Use honey for adults and children over 1 year old
Try warm tea or broth
Use a humidifier or inhale steam
Avoid smoke, dust, and strong odors
Suck on lozenges or hard candy
Gargle with warm salt water
Take over-the-counter cough medicine as directed
Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever or discomfort
Treat nasal congestion with saline spray or decongestants if appropriate
Sleep with your head elevated
See a doctor if the cough lasts more than a few weeks
Seek medical care if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, high fever, or coughing up blood