Is AC mold making my son sick?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, it is very likely that the mold from your AC leak is causing your son's recurring symptoms. The black spots behind the wardrobe are a classic visual indicator of a mold colony, and his stuffy nose and cough that improve away from the bedroom strongly suggest an environmental trigger.

In Dubai's humid climate, AC units that develop leaks create a perfect environment for mold growth—constant moisture and dust for food. The mold releases microscopic spores into the air, which, when inhaled, irritate the respiratory tract. This is particularly impactful for children, whose systems are more sensitive. The pattern of symptoms resolving outside the contaminated room is a major clue.

You should address this promptly. First, move the wardrobe to fully assess the wall. Wipe a small area with a bleach solution; if the black discoloration lightens and then returns, it confirms active mold. However, cleaning the surface is only a temporary fix.

The core issue is the ongoing moisture from the AC leak. This must be repaired by an HVAC technician to stop the problem at its source. For a case like this, with visible growth and health symptoms, a professional inspection is recommended. They can identify the mold species and the full extent of the growth, which often spreads inside walls from a leak. Proper remediation involves containing the area, removing contaminated materials like drywall, and using HEPA filtration to clean the air, followed by verification that the spore count has returned to normal levels. Until the leak is fixed and the mold properly removed, your son's symptoms will likely continue.