Is high humidity causing my kids' symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

High humidity can indeed be linked to the symptoms your children have been experiencing. In the UAE, especially during the hot and humid summer months, high indoor moisture levels can lead to an increase in mold spores, dust mites, and other allergens that may trigger respiratory issues such as chest tightness and coughing.

The persistent musty smell you've noticed is a strong indicator of potential mold growth. In Dubai, it's not uncommon for humidity levels to climb due to the climate and sometimes even after heavy rains. The fact that your air conditioning system struggles despite being set to its lowest setting suggests that the indoor environment may be saturated with moisture.

It's crucial to address this issue promptly to ensure a healthy living environment for everyone in the household, particularly children who can be more sensitive to airborne allergens and irritants. Here are some steps you can take:

Firstly, consider scheduling an inspection by a professional environmental consultancy company like Saniservice (call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com). They will conduct a thorough assessment of your villa's indoor air quality, identify the source of moisture and any existing mold growth, and recommend appropriate remediation measures.

In the meantime, you can implement some immediate strategies to reduce humidity levels:

1. Use dehumidifiers: Place them in key areas such as the nursery and living spaces. This will help lower the overall moisture content in the air.
2. Increase ventilation: Open windows when possible, especially during cooler times of day, to allow fresh air into the home. Alternatively, use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove excess moisture from these high-moisture areas.
3. Monitor relative humidity levels: Use a hygrometer to keep track of indoor humidity. Ideally, this should be maintained between 40% and 60%. If it exceeds 65%, consider taking additional steps to reduce moisture.

Additionally, regularly clean and maintain your HVAC system to ensure efficient operation and prevent further moisture accumulation. Vacuuming carpets and washing curtains and bedding frequently can also help in reducing allergens.

By addressing the high humidity issue, you should see a noticeable improvement in air quality and potentially alleviate your children's symptoms over time. Remember that long-term solutions may require professional intervention for comprehensive mold remediation and moisture control measures.