Sleep with your head elevated (extra pillows or a wedge)
Avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime
Reduce or avoid spicy foods, citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, peppermint, caffeine, alcohol, and late meals
If you have heartburn, use an over-the-counter antacid as directed
Consider an over-the-counter acid reducer (famotidine) as directed if reflux symptoms are frequent
Keep the bedroom air slightly humid (cool-mist humidifier) and clean it regularly
Stay hydrated through the day and sip water before bed
Take a warm shower or inhale steam briefly before sleep
Use saline nasal spray or rinse if post-nasal drip is likely
Treat nasal allergies with an over-the-counter antihistamine as directed
If congestion is present, use an over-the-counter saline spray; consider a short course of decongestant only if appropriate for you
Try honey (1–2 teaspoons) before bed for adults and children over 1 year old
Use throat lozenges or hard candy to reduce throat irritation
Avoid smoke, vaping, strong fragrances, and other irritants in the home
Keep pets out of the bedroom if allergies are suspected
Wash bedding in hot water and use allergen-proof covers if applicable
If prescribed, use inhalers as directed for asthma or reactive airways
If you’re using an inhaler, ensure correct technique and timing
Consider an over-the-counter cough suppressant at night (dextromethorphan) as directed if appropriate
Consider an over-the-counter expectorant (guaifenesin) during the day to loosen mucus, if appropriate
Avoid combining multiple cough/cold products that duplicate ingredients
Check your medications for cough side effects (especially ACE inhibitors) and ask your clinician if relevant
If symptoms suggest whooping cough, stop self-treating and contact urgent care
Seek urgent care immediately for trouble breathing, wheezing with distress, blue lips, coughing up blood, chest pain, or severe weakness
Contact a clinician if cough lasts more than 3 weeks, is recurrent, or is accompanied by fever, weight loss, night sweats, or persistent shortness of breath
Contact a clinician if you suspect reflux and it doesn’t improve with lifestyle changes within 1–2 weeks
Contact a clinician if you have asthma/COPD and night cough is worsening or not controlled