Could dark patches be mold causing coughing?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell in my bedroom closet. At first, I thought it was just because of the humidity, but now my kids have been complaining of coughing fits at night, and I can see some dark patches on the back wall where the shelving meets the ceiling. Could these be signs of hidden mold?
Posted by Majid Hussein
Asked on March 11, 2026 6:43 am
Could dark patches be mold causing coughing? Absolutely, the symptoms your kids have been experiencing and the musty smell you're noticing could indeed be signs of hidden mold. Dark patches on walls or ceilings are often a primary indicator that mold is present, especially if they coincide with recent humidity issues like the rain you mentioned.

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, we've seen numerous cases where moisture accumulation following rainy periods leads to mold growth, especially in enclosed spaces such as closets and attics. Mold spores can travel through air ducts and affect areas far from the source of moisture, making hidden mold a real concern.

The musty smell is a common sign of mold presence, and it’s not uncommon for mold to grow behind walls or within wall cavities where light cannot reach, hence remaining unseen until an inspection. As for your kids' coughing fits at night, they can be triggered by exposure to mold spores. These spores can irritate the respiratory system, leading to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and in some cases, asthma attacks.

It's highly recommended that you contact a professional environmental inspection company such as Saniservice for an inspection. They can use advanced equipment to detect hidden mold growth that isn't visible to the naked eye. The UAE regulations require properties to be inspected regularly, especially after water damage or flooding incidents, which seems relevant here given your recent experience with rain.

Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a detailed inspection and remediation plan. Early detection is crucial as it can prevent further health issues for you and your family.

Remember, while DIY mold removal might seem tempting, it's not advisable unless you're experienced in handling such tasks safely. Incorrect methods could spread the spores around or worsen the situation. Therefore, professional assistance is paramount to ensure proper remediation and safety measures are taken.

Stay vigilant about indoor humidity levels and address any water damage promptly. Regular maintenance can prevent mold from becoming a problem, but if you suspect hidden growth, act fast!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 13, 2026 3:57 am