Could our AC mold be causing our cough and itchy eyes?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our bedroom has been leaking a bit for the last few months, and now I can see black spots spreading on the wall behind the wardrobe. My husband and I have both had a stubborn cough and itchy eyes that just won't go away. Is this definitely mold and could it be the reason we've been feeling so unwell?
Posted by Akiko Nguyen
Asked on April 12, 2026 3:15 pm
Yes, it is highly likely that the black spots are mould and the direct cause of your persistent cough and itchy eyes. In Dubai's climate, AC leaks create a perfect environment for mould growth due to the constant cycle of condensation and high ambient humidity. The most common types found in such situations, like Cladosporium and Aspergillus, are known irritants that cause exactly the symptoms you describe.

The wall behind the wardrobe is a critical concern. The leak has saturated the drywall, and the confined, dark space allows mould to proliferate out of sight, releasing spores into the air you breathe while sleeping. Do not attempt to clean this yourself with bleach, as improper disturbance will aerosolize a high concentration of spores, potentially worsening your exposure and symptoms.

Your situation requires a professional assessment. A proper inspection will identify the full extent of the hidden growth inside the wall cavity and the AC unit itself. Remediation involves fixing the AC leak at its source, safely removing contaminated porous materials like the drywall, and HEPA vacuuming to clear spores. For verification, a post-remediation test from an independent lab is the only way to confirm the allergen levels in your bedroom air have been returned to a safe baseline. Resolving the water issue is the first and most critical step.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 12, 2026 8:29 pm