Drink plenty of fluids
Rest
Use honey for adults and children over 1 year old
Try warm tea or warm water
Use a humidifier or inhale steam
Gargle with warm salt water
Avoid smoke, dust, and strong odors
Use throat lozenges if appropriate
Take over-the-counter cough medicine as directed
Treat allergies if they are the cause
Treat acid reflux if it is the cause
Seek medical care if the cough lasts more than 3 weeks
Seek medical care if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, high fever, or coughing up blood