Quit smoking completely
Avoid secondhand smoke
Drink plenty of water
Use a humidifier
Try steam inhalation
Suck on lozenges or hard candy
Rest your voice and lungs
Exercise regularly as tolerated
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Avoid alcohol and other airway irritants
Use honey for throat soothing if appropriate
Consider over-the-counter cough medicine as directed
Treat acid reflux if present
Manage allergies or postnasal drip if present
See a doctor for persistent cough
Get medical help for coughing up blood, chest pain, shortness of breath, fever, or weight loss