Is mold causing our coughs and safe to clean myself?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, that black mould is very likely contributing to your family's persistent coughs, sore throats, and headaches. The mould releases microscopic spores and mycotoxins into the air you breathe, which are known irritants that can cause these exact respiratory symptoms, especially in children.

Do not clean it with bleach. Bleach only removes the surface colour and is ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall; it can also aggravate respiratory issues by releasing harsh fumes. The mould's root system remains intact, allowing it to regrow quickly.

For a patch large enough to cause these health effects, professional assessment is strongly recommended. The visible growth is often just the tip of the iceberg, with hidden moisture and colonization within the wall cavity. In Dubai's climate, high humidity and condensation from AC units create perfect conditions for this recurrence if the underlying moisture issue isn't identified and resolved.

A proper remediation involves containing the area to prevent spore spread throughout your home, safely removing the affected building materials, and using specialized antimicrobial treatments. The most critical step is a moisture survey to find and fix the source, which could be a hidden condensation line leak, capillary moisture from the slab, or poor exterior waterproofing—common issues in villas here.

For your peace of mind and your family's health, a professional inspection that includes air quality testing can confirm the spore levels and species present, directly linking it to the symptoms and ensuring the remediation is complete.