Is my child's cough from mold exposure?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, it is very possible your child's cough is connected to the mold exposure. The constant dampness from a slow AC leak in a Dubai apartment creates an ideal environment for mold, and the type often found in these situations—like Cladosporium or Aspergillus—are common irritants. For children, whose respiratory systems are still developing, prolonged exposure frequently manifests as a persistent cough, congestion, and worsened allergy-like symptoms.

You should take them to a doctor and be specific about the mold discovery. Mention the duration of the cough and that you found visible mold growth linked to a suspected AC leak. The doctor can assess for conditions like allergic rhinitis or asthma exacerbation. While specific mold allergy tests exist, the doctor will determine if they are clinically necessary based on the examination.

Concurrently, you must address the source. In Deira's high humidity, that mold will continue to grow and affect air quality. Simply cleaning the visible patch is not enough; the wall's interior is likely saturated. This requires a professional inspection to assess the full extent of the water damage and proper remediation—which involves containment, removal of affected materials, and addressing the AC leak—to prevent it from recurring. Until then, keep the children out of that room and ensure good ventilation throughout the apartment.