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After the heavy smog last month, I’ve been experiencing a persistent cough and my throat feels sore. The air purifier in our living room can’t seem to filter out all the pollutants, especially when we have the windows closed due to the heat. My kids are also complaining of headaches more frequently now. Have anyone else noticed similar issues or any tips on dealing with such poor air quality?
Posted by Patricia Thomas
Asked on February 3, 2026 8:26 am
Based on the experiences shared by fellow residents and environmental health professionals within the UAE, particularly focusing on Dubai, there have been notable cases of persistent coughs, sore throats, and frequent headaches among individuals. These symptoms are often exacerbated during periods when air quality is poor due to factors like dust storms or smog events.

In the context of your situation, it's imperative that you consider several key actions:

1. Professional Assessment: Given the severity of symptoms experienced by yourself and your children, a professional inspection of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) would be highly recommended. Companies such as Saniservice can provide comprehensive assessments tailored to the unique climate and conditions in Dubai.

2. Air Filtration Systems: While air purifiers are useful tools, they may not fully address all contaminants present during high-pollution events. Consider installing advanced filtration systems that can handle particulate matter down to 0.3 microns (HEPA filters) or even consider a combination of technologies including UV light sterilization and activated carbon filters.

3. Window Management: In Dubai, the climate often necessitates keeping windows closed during heat waves to maintain indoor comfort. However, this practice can trap outdoor pollutants inside your home. Using air purifiers in conjunction with smart window control systems that open vents or exhaust fans for short periods when outside pollution levels are lower could mitigate some of these issues.

4. Humidity Control: High humidity levels can exacerbate respiratory issues and promote mold growth. Utilizing dehumidifiers along with maintaining a relative humidity level around 30-50% is crucial. Regularly checking and cleaning your HVAC systems to prevent moisture buildup also helps in reducing the risk of microbial growth.

5. Indoor Plants: Certain indoor plants like spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants can help improve air quality by absorbing some pollutants through their leaves. However, they should not replace proper filtration and ventilation strategies.

6. Ventilation Strategies: When possible, ensure that your building is properly ventilated to allow for the exchange of fresh outdoor air with indoor air. This can be managed through a balance between maintaining thermal comfort and reducing indoor pollutants during high-risk periods.

7. Regular Maintenance Checks: Conduct regular checks on all components of your HVAC system, including filters, ductwork, and dehumidifiers, ensuring they are functioning optimally to maintain good indoor air quality.

8. Awareness and Preparedness: Stay informed about local air quality indices (AQI) through reliable sources like the Dubai Municipality or Aqai.net. Use this information to plan your day around optimal air quality periods when feasible.

Remember, maintaining a healthy living environment is crucial, especially in a place like Dubai where climatic conditions can significantly impact indoor air quality. Should you require further assistance or have concerns that go beyond these recommendations, don't hesitate to contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for expert guidance tailored specifically to your situation.

By taking a proactive approach and implementing the above strategies, you can significantly improve your living environment's quality and reduce adverse health effects associated with poor air quality.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 5, 2026 6:10 pm