Drink warm fluids such as water, tea, or broth
Use honey if you are older than 1 year
Stay hydrated throughout the day
Use a humidifier or inhale steam
Suck on lozenges or hard candy
Avoid smoke, dust, and strong odors
Rest your voice and avoid throat clearing
Sleep with your head elevated
Use saline nasal spray if postnasal drip is present
Try over-the-counter cough medicine if appropriate
Treat allergies if they are causing the cough
Avoid cold air and dry environments
See a doctor if the cough lasts more than a few weeks
Seek medical care if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, fever, or coughing up blood