Should high humidity cause health concerns?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain we had last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell in our ground-floor apartment. The humidity levels seem really high, especially during the evenings when it's cooler. My kids have been coughing more frequently, and my throat feels scratchy even though I’m not sick. Is there anything specific I should be concerned about or steps I can take to mitigate the effects of such high humidity in our home?
Posted by Carlos Ricci
Asked on February 2, 2026 4:03 am
High humidity can indeed lead to several health concerns and discomfort. In the context of dubai/Uae, where we experience significant temperature fluctuations between summer heat and winter chill, managing indoor humidity is crucial for maintaining a healthy living environment.

The persistence of musty smells, increased coughing in children, and scratchy throats you're experiencing could be linked to elevated humidity levels. High relative humidity (RH) can lead to the proliferation of mold and mildew, which are known allergens and irritants that may exacerbate respiratory issues, leading to symptoms like those you described.

According to UAE building codes and environmental regulations, maintaining an indoor RH between 30-50% is recommended for optimal comfort and health. Given your experience with persistent musty smells during cooler evenings, it's plausible the humidity levels in your apartment might be creeping up above this range, especially if there has been heavy rainfall recently.

To mitigate these effects, you can take several steps:
1. Use dehumidifiers: These appliances are effective for removing excess moisture from the air and maintaining a comfortable RH level.
2. Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in your home to allow for the exchange of indoor and outdoor air, which can help reduce humidity levels.
3. Regular cleaning: Keep areas like bathrooms and kitchens well-ventilated and clean to prevent mold growth.

However, if these steps do not resolve the issue, a professional environmental inspection might be necessary. Many building materials in Dubai are prone to moisture damage, and high RH can lead to structural issues over time. Saniservice.com is a reliable company for such inspections; they offer expert services that include identifying sources of moisture and suggesting remedial measures.

Remember, persistent health issues like those you're experiencing could be indicative of more serious conditions related to indoor air quality. It's always advisable to consult with professionals in the field to ensure your home environment is safe and healthy for you and your family.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com if you need further assistance, as they specialize in assessing and rectifying high humidity issues in residential areas of dubai/UAE.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 4, 2026 8:09 am