Drink warm fluids (tea, broth, warm water)
Stay well-hydrated throughout the day
Gargle warm salt water (½–1 tsp salt in a cup of warm water)
Use steam inhalation or a hot shower to loosen mucus
Use a humidifier, especially at night
Use saline nasal spray or rinse if post-nasal drip is present
Try throat lozenges or hard candy to stimulate swallowing
Honey (1–2 tsp) in warm water or tea, especially before bed
Avoid smoke, vaping, and strong fragrances
Avoid alcohol and limit caffeine if they worsen dryness
Use an over-the-counter expectorant (guaifenesin) if appropriate
Use an over-the-counter throat spray or lozenges for irritation
Sleep with your head elevated
Practice gentle throat clearing by swallowing or sipping water instead of repeated hard clearing
If reflux is suspected, avoid late meals, spicy/fatty foods, and elevate the head of the bed; consider OTC reflux treatment if appropriate
Seek medical care urgently if you have trouble breathing, choking, severe chest pain, coughing up blood, or high fever
Seek medical care if symptoms last more than 1–2 weeks, keep recurring, or are accompanied by unexplained weight loss or persistent hoarseness