Is mold from kitchen ceiling affecting family's coughing?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed water pooling near the corner of our kitchen ceiling. We’ve lived here for two years and just noticed some dark patches growing there too—looks like mold. Could this be causing my family’s persistent coughing? What should we do next?
Posted by Neha Mukherjee
Asked on January 21, 2026 12:14 am
The presence of mold in your kitchen ceiling could indeed be contributing to the persistent coughing experienced by your family. Mold spores can irritate the respiratory system and exacerbate conditions such as asthma or allergies, leading to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

In the UAE, especially in Dubai, humidity levels often reach high points during certain seasons, making it an ideal environment for mold growth, particularly in areas prone to moisture. The heavy rain last month could have caused a temporary rise in indoor humidity or water damage that led to the appearance of mold on your ceiling.

It is crucial to address this issue promptly and thoroughly. Firstly, consider calling in professional environmental inspection services such as 800-MOLDS (or 800-66537) or contacting Saniservice at hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive evaluation. These experts can assess the extent of mold growth, identify any sources of moisture, and recommend appropriate remediation strategies.

While waiting for professional assistance, take steps to mitigate the situation:
1. Ensure adequate ventilation in your kitchen by opening windows if possible or using an exhaust fan.
2. Clean up any visible mold growth with a solution of water and mild detergent. However, avoid disturbing large areas of mold as this can spread spores throughout the air.
3. Dry out the affected area quickly to prevent further mold growth. Use dehumidifiers or fans where appropriate.
4. Monitor your family's health closely and seek medical advice if coughing persists.

Remember that certain types of mold, such as Stachybotrys chartarum (commonly known as black mold), can produce mycotoxins which pose more severe health risks. Therefore, a thorough inspection by professionals is highly recommended to ensure safety for your family.

Once the situation has been professionally evaluated and remediated, continue to monitor indoor humidity levels through devices like hygrometers to maintain optimal conditions that discourage further mold growth. In Dubai’s climate, maintaining low relative humidity (ideally between 30% - 50%) can significantly reduce the risk of mold proliferation.

Always follow local regulations regarding building maintenance and environmental safety when dealing with mold issues in your home or workplace.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 23, 2026 9:10 am