Could this mold cause our month-long respiratory issues?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and my own allergies are going crazy. I finally pulled out the wardrobe in our master bedroom here in our Jumeirah villa and found a huge patch of black, fuzzy mold on the wall behind it, probably from a slow AC leak. **Could this be the cause of our respiratory issues and how dangerous is it to have been breathing this in for who knows how long?**
Posted by David Wright
Asked on April 23, 2026 2:30 pm
Yes, the black mold behind your wardrobe is very likely the cause of your family's persistent coughing and allergy flare-ups. In Dubai's humid climate, hidden mold growth from AC condensation leaks is a common trigger for these exact respiratory symptoms. The continuous exposure to mold spores in your bedroom's air can cause significant irritation.

While the term "black mold" often causes alarm, the primary health risk for most people comes from the ongoing exposure to any mold's spores and microbial compounds, not just one specific type. For individuals with allergies or asthma, this exposure can lead to chronic sinus congestion, coughing, and wheezing. The duration of exposure you describe means the spore concentration in the room's air is likely high.

You should arrange for a professional mold inspection. In the UAE, a proper assessment involves more than a visual check; it includes air and surface sampling to be analyzed by a microbiology lab. This identifies the species and spore concentration levels, which is critical for understanding the health risk and planning the correct remediation strategy. For a case of this size and with health symptoms already present, a DIY cleanup is not advised.

Until a professional arrives, restrict access to the bedroom, ensure good ventilation by opening windows if possible, and run a dehumidifier. The remediation process will involve fixing the AC leak source, safely removing the contaminated materials, and a thorough cleaning and disinfection of the area. Addressing the root cause—the moisture—is the only way to prevent it from returning.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 25, 2026 12:26 pm