Drink plenty of water
Use warm fluids like tea or broth
Gargle with warm salt water
Use steam inhalation or a humidifier
Try honey if you are not allergic and are over 1 year old
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
Limit exposure to dust, strong odors, and other irritants
Sleep with your head elevated
Blow your nose gently
Cough up phlegm instead of swallowing it
Use saline nasal spray or rinse
Take an over-the-counter expectorant if appropriate
Seek medical care if phlegm is persistent, bloody, or comes with trouble breathing, chest pain, or high fever