Is this mold causing my child's persistent cough?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our villa in Mirdif for 2 years and just noticed black spots forming along the edges of the bedroom ceiling in our kids' room, and my youngest has been having a persistent cough for the last couple of weeks. It seems to get worse at night when the AC is on. Is this definitely mold, and who should I call first to get it properly tested and removed safely for the children?
Posted by David Young
Asked on March 30, 2026 2:19 am
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the black spots on the ceiling are microbial growth, likely mold. The combination of a child's persistent cough that worsens at night with the AC running is a significant indicator of a potential mold-related health issue. The AC unit can act as an aerosolizer, dispersing mold spores and mycotoxins throughout the room, which are then inhaled.

In Dubai's climate, this is a common issue. The extreme humidity, especially at night, combined with cold surfaces from constant air conditioning, creates perfect conditions for condensation. This moisture accumulation within ceiling voids or on ductwork, often from a small leak or insufficient insulation, provides the dampness mold needs to grow.

You should not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing the mold can release a much higher concentration of spores and aggravate your child's symptoms. Your first call must be to a certified professional mold inspection company. In the UAE, reputable firms like ours, Saniservice, conduct a comprehensive assessment that includes moisture mapping, thermal imaging to find the hidden water source, and air quality testing to identify the spore types and concentration levels. This scientific approach is crucial to developing an effective remediation plan.

For the health of your family, I strongly recommend you schedule a professional inspection immediately. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Our certified technicians will identify the root cause, provide a detailed report, and safely remediate the problem to ensure your home is healthy again.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 31, 2026 6:32 am