Is the mold in my apartment causing our cough?« Back to Previous Page

It is very likely the mold is contributing to your family's persistent cough and allergy symptoms. The black spots behind the wardrobe are a clear sign of a moisture problem, and the confined space allows for high concentrations of spores to become airborne and be inhaled. In Dubai's humid climate, this is a common issue, especially in areas with poor ventilation or where condensation builds up, such as behind furniture on external walls.

The constant coughing is a classic reaction to mold exposure, which can irritate the respiratory tract. For individuals with existing allergies or asthma, the reaction can be significantly more severe. You should have the mold professionally inspected. A proper assessment involves more than a visual check; it includes identifying the moisture source and often requires air and surface sampling to be analyzed by an accredited microbiology lab to determine the species and concentration.

For removal, do not attempt to clean significant growth yourself, as disturbing it can release a large number of spores and potentially toxic compounds into your apartment's air. The remediation process requires containment of the area, specialized equipment like HEPA air scrubbers, and safe removal protocols to protect your family and prevent cross-contamination.

You need to call a certified mold remediation specialist. Look for a provider that offers full diagnostic testing with documented lab results and follows industry standards like the IICRC S520 for mold remediation. They will identify the root cause—which could be a hidden leak, condensation from AC ducts, or penetration damp—and provide a scope for its proper removal and for fixing the underlying moisture issue.