AC mold causing child's persistent cough and runny nose?« Back to Previous Page

This is a situation that requires prompt action. Given the visible mould growth and your son's persistent respiratory symptoms, the risk is significant enough to treat with urgency. Indoor mould exposure, particularly from a constant moisture source like an AC leak, is a common irritant and can exacerbate or cause these exact symptoms in children, whose respiratory systems are more sensitive.

In Dubai's climate, AC units are a primary breeding ground for mould due to the constant cycle of condensation and high ambient humidity. A small leak creates a perpetually damp environment on your wall, allowing mould colonies to establish themselves and release spores into the bedroom's air. Your son's ten-day cough and runny nose are strong indicators that the air quality in that room has been compromised.

You should schedule a professional inspection and remediation. Look for a provider that can identify the mould species and the full extent of the contamination, often hidden inside the wall or AC unit itself. Proper remediation involves fixing the leak at its source, removing the contaminated materials (like sections of drywall), and HEPA vacuuming to remove spores, not just spraying a chemical. Verifiable before-and-after air quality testing is the only way to confirm the problem is resolved.

Concurrently, it is advisable to have your son seen by a paediatrician. Inform the doctor about the discovered mould so they can make a fully informed assessment. While many cases are irritation, a medical professional can rule out other causes and provide appropriate treatment. For immediate steps, keep the bedroom well-ventilated and consider moving your son to a different room to sleep until the mould is professionally addressed.