[header] How to treat an acute cough [title] Get plenty of rest. [step] As with any illness, the more time you can give your body to rest, the faster you will likely recover from the infection. Most acute coughs are caused by the common cold or the flu, and taking time to rest can enhance your immune function and your ability to fight off the bug. 
[substeps] If you cannot get time off work, see if you can cancel other commitments to give your body more rest. Get extra sleep if this is at all possible in your schedule.