Drink plenty of fluids
Rest as much as possible
Use honey for cough relief if age 1 or older
Try warm tea or warm water with lemon
Use a humidifier or cool-mist vaporizer
Avoid smoke, dust, and strong odors
Gargle with salt water
Use over-the-counter cough medicine as directed
Treat nasal congestion with saline spray or rinses
Sleep with your head elevated
Avoid alcohol and caffeine if they worsen symptoms
Stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
See a doctor if the cough lasts more than 3 weeks
Seek medical care sooner if you have fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, or wheezing