Drink plenty of fluids
Use warm water, tea, or broth
Try honey if you are older than 1 year
Use a humidifier or inhale steam
Rest your voice
Avoid smoke, dust, and strong odors
Use throat lozenges or hard candy
Sleep with your head elevated
Take over-the-counter cough medicine if appropriate
Treat allergies, acid reflux, or nasal drip if they are the cause
See a doctor if the cough lasts more than 3 weeks
Seek medical care sooner if you have fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing blood, or wheezing