Is poor indoor air quality causing my daughter's symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

Since we moved into our new apartment a year ago, I’ve noticed that my daughter often complains about feeling dizzy and tired after playing in her room. The air feels stale, and there’s a slight musty smell even though I clean regularly. After the rain last month, it seemed worse, and now she has a persistent cough. Could this be due to poor indoor air quality? What eco-friendly solutions can we implement to improve the situation without spending too much?
Posted by William Scott
Asked on January 3, 2026 10:34 am
Absolutely, poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can indeed be the culprit for your daughter's symptoms. The stale air and musty smell coupled with her persistent cough after rainfall suggest a possible build-up of moisture leading to mold growth or other allergens in your home.

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, we often experience high humidity levels during certain months, especially post-rainfall events. This can create favorable conditions for mold spores to thrive, which might explain why her symptoms worsen after rains. Mold exposure can cause respiratory issues like coughing and dizziness, as well as fatigue.

To tackle this issue effectively, a multi-pronged approach is necessary:

1. Professional Inspection: Given the specific environment in Dubai and considering your daughter's symptoms, it would be wise to undergo a professional indoor environmental quality inspection. This service will help identify the source of the problem and recommend appropriate remediation measures tailored to UAE standards.

2. Ventilation Solutions: Enhancing ventilation is crucial. In Dubai, you might consider installing an exhaust fan or even a whole-house ventilation system if your apartment allows it. These systems can significantly improve air circulation and reduce moisture levels.

3. Humidity Control: Utilize dehumidifiers to keep humidity levels below 60%. This is especially important in the UAE where relative humidity often exceeds this level, particularly during summer months or after rainfall events.

4. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products: Switching to eco-friendly cleaning products can help reduce indoor pollutants. Look for brands that are biodegradable and non-toxic, which are safer for both your family and the environment.

5. Regular Maintenance Checks: Regularly check and clean air filters in HVAC systems. In Dubai, it’s recommended to change these every three months or as per manufacturer instructions.

6. Plant Carefully: If you have indoor plants, ensure they don’t contribute to moisture issues. Some plants can release a lot of water vapor into the air, which might exacerbate humidity problems.

7. Seal Gaps and Cracks: Seal any gaps or cracks where moisture can enter your home from outside. This not only helps in reducing dampness but also keeps allergens like dust mites at bay.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is essential for overall health, especially for children who are more susceptible to respiratory issues. If you notice persistent symptoms despite these measures, don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals.

For immediate assistance or further inquiries, feel free to call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for expert advice and services in indoor air quality improvement.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 4, 2026 7:24 pm