If you’re plagued with a cold or another respiratory illness that’s causing a cough, there are things you can do to help tame the beast.

The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute offers these suggestions to help calm a cough:

* Quit smoking.

* Steer clear of substances that can irritate the lungs and worsen a cough, such as air pollution, tobacco smoke, allergens and strong odours.

* Take all medications as prescribed by your doctor.

* Follow your doctor’s treatment plan.

* Take cough medicine, if recommended by your doctor.

* Run a cool-mist humidifier or steam vaporizer.

— HealthDay News