(HealthDay News) - A cough can be an annoying symptom of many ills, including a cold, sinus infection, bronchitis or another respiratory condition.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine offers these suggestions to help calm a cough:

• Suck on cough drops or hard candy to soothe a dry, tickling cough.
• Use a vaporizer at home to add more moisture to the air.
• Take a hot shower. The steam will help soothe your cough.
• Drink plenty of liquids. They'll help break up mucus in your throat.
• If you smoke, stop.
• Never give a young child any medication to treat a cold or cough without consulting your doctor.