Drink plenty of warm fluids
Rest as much as possible
Use honey for adults and children over 1 year old
Gargle with warm salt water
Use a humidifier or inhale steam
Avoid smoke, dust, and strong odors
Try lozenges or hard candies
Take over-the-counter cough medicine if appropriate
Use saline nasal spray if postnasal drip is causing the cough
Stay hydrated
Sleep with your head elevated
Avoid cold air if it triggers coughing
See a doctor if the cough lasts more than a few weeks
Seek medical help if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, fever, or coughing up blood