Found black mold at home, health risks?« Back to Previous Page

Black mold exposure, especially for prolonged periods, can cause the symptoms you're describing. The persistent coughing and nasal congestion are common reactions to mold spores, which are irritants and allergens. For children and anyone with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma, the effects can be more pronounced.

Given the visible size of the patch and the ongoing health issues, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. In Dubai's climate, high humidity and constant AC use can cause hidden condensation and leaks, allowing mold to spread inside wall cavities and AC units behind what you see. A certified inspector can use moisture meters and borescopes to assess the full extent and identify the moisture source, which is critical to prevent recurrence.

Do not attempt to clean a large patch yourself. Disturbing it will aerosolize a massive amount of spores throughout your home, potentially worsening your family's exposure. The health priority is to stop the exposure. It is advisable to consult a doctor, inform them of the mold discovery, and discuss the symptoms. They can provide appropriate treatment and confirm if the issues are allergy-related.

For remediation, look for a company that follows IICRC S520 standards for mold remediation. The process should include containment of the area, HEPA-filtered air scrubbers to clean the air, safe removal of contaminated materials, and most importantly, identification and repair of the underlying water leak. Post-remediation verification, often involving air sampling sent to an independent microbiology lab, is the only way to confirm the spore count inside the home has returned to a safe, background level.