See a healthcare professional to confirm whether it is acute bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, COPD, or another condition
Rest as much as possible
Drink plenty of fluids
Use a humidifier or inhale warm steam
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
Avoid dust, fumes, and other lung irritants
Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever, aches, or throat pain if safe for you
Use honey for cough if you are older than 1 year
Try throat lozenges or warm saltwater gargles
Sleep with your head elevated
Use an over-the-counter cough medicine only if appropriate for your symptoms and age
Use an inhaler only if prescribed or previously directed
Take prescribed antibiotics only if a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected
Take prescribed steroids or bronchodilators exactly as directed if given
Seek urgent care for trouble breathing, chest pain, blue lips, confusion, high fever, coughing blood, or worsening symptoms
Get medical help if symptoms last more than 3 weeks or keep coming back