1. Increasing humidity in the air helps relieve a cough. A vapouriser and a steamy shower are two ways to increase humidity.

  2. Drink extra fluids to help thin secretions and make them easier to cough up.

  3. Glyceryl guaiacolate is available without prescription and may help liquefy the mucous. Drink lots of fluids if taking this medication.

  4. When a cold and a stuffy, runny nose accompany the cough, it is often caused by mucous dripping down the back of the throat. A decongestant that opens the nasal passages will relieve this postnasal drip.

  5. Decongestants such as phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine or combinations of these two decongestants are available as over-the-counter cold medications. Don't give decongestants to a child under six years of age unless prescribed by the doctor.