Drink warm fluids (tea, broth)
Stay well hydrated
Use a humidifier or take a warm steam shower
Do nasal saline rinses or saline spray
Gargle warm salt water
Use honey (1–2 teaspoons) for cough/throat irritation
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
Avoid alcohol and very cold air
Limit dairy if it worsens symptoms for you
Try an expectorant (guaifenesin) as directed on the label
Use a throat lozenge to reduce throat irritation
Sleep with your head elevated
Use an air purifier if allergies trigger symptoms
Manage allergies (non-drowsy antihistamine or intranasal steroid) if applicable
Seek urgent care if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, coughing up blood, or severe weakness
Seek medical care if symptoms last more than 10 days, keep recurring, or you have fever over 102°F (38.9°C)
Get evaluated if you have asthma/COPD, immune suppression, or unexplained weight loss