Is my new apartment causing these symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

Since we moved into our new apartment a few months ago, I’ve been experiencing a persistent dry cough and occasional shortness of breath, especially in the evenings when I’m relaxing on my balcony. The air feels particularly thick, and there’s this strange odor that seems to linger even after airing out the space. How urgent is it for me to seek medical advice given these symptoms?
Posted by Abdullah Sharif
Asked on January 19, 2026 4:08 am
Is your new apartment causing these symptoms? That's quite a pertinent question. Considering the recent move into a fresh environment and given the symptoms you've been experiencing, it is highly possible that indoor environmental factors are at play.

Firstly, the UAE, including Dubai, has stringent regulations for indoor air quality (IAQ) in residential buildings as per the laws of the Federal Law No. 14 of 2019 on Building Codes and Standards. This law emphasizes the need to maintain a healthy environment within residences, which includes controlling pollutants like mold, dust mites, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other irritants that could trigger respiratory issues.

The symptoms you've described - a persistent dry cough and occasional shortness of breath, especially in the evenings when you're relaxing on your balcony - might be linked to poor IAQ. The air feeling thick and the strange odor can indicate the presence of mold or other allergens. In Dubai, high humidity levels during certain times of the year could contribute to these issues.

To properly assess whether the environment is a contributing factor to your health concerns, it would be prudent to seek professional advice from an environmental inspection company such as Saniservice, which you can contact via 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. They can perform a thorough investigation of your apartment's indoor air quality and identify any potential sources of irritation.

Moreover, conducting a visual inspection for signs of mold growth, dampness, or water damage is crucial. Mold thrives in warm and humid environments such as bathrooms or kitchens and can produce spores that are known to irritate the respiratory system. If you notice any discoloration on walls, ceilings, or floors, it could be indicative of hidden moisture issues.

Additionally, consider getting an air quality test done. This will help determine if there is a presence of mold spores, fungi, bacteria, and other allergens that can exacerbate your symptoms. The results from such tests can provide valuable insights into the need for remediation actions to improve indoor air quality in your apartment.

In conclusion, given your symptoms and the potential environmental factors at play, it would be wise to seek professional assistance without delay. Early intervention can prevent further health complications and ensure a healthier living environment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 21, 2026 6:09 pm