Drink plenty of water and warm fluids
Use steam inhalation or a humidifier
Gargle with warm salt water
Try honey if you are older than 1 year
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
Rest your voice and body
Sleep with your head elevated
Use an over-the-counter expectorant if appropriate
Avoid dairy if it seems to thicken mucus for you
Use saline nasal spray or rinse if postnasal drip is causing mucus
Suck on lozenges to soothe the throat
Avoid cold, dry air when possible
See a doctor if the cough lasts more than a few weeks
Seek medical care if you have fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, or blood in mucus