Could air from dust storms cause these symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the dust storm last month, I noticed a persistent dry cough and a slight headache whenever I spend time outside, especially in the afternoon. The air feels thick and itchy when I walk by the construction sites near my building. Is this common after such weather events, or could there be something more concerning?
Posted by Daniel Anderson
Asked on December 11, 2025 10:53 am
Yes, air from dust storms can indeed cause respiratory and other health symptoms. In the UAE specifically, particularly during dust storm events like those experienced recently, it's not uncommon for individuals to experience dry coughs, headaches, or itching sensations due to particulate matter in the atmosphere.

In your case, spending time outside especially in the afternoon near construction sites could expose you to higher concentrations of fine dust particles. These particulates can irritate the respiratory system and potentially exacerbate pre-existing conditions such as asthma or allergies.

The UAE has strict environmental regulations aimed at minimizing the impact of dust storms on public health. However, individual exposure can vary significantly depending on factors like proximity to sources of dust generation and personal sensitivities.

Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to consider a professional indoor air quality inspection. Such an assessment could help identify specific contaminants present in the air and determine their potential impact on health. In Dubai, services are available through companies like Saniservice, which can provide detailed reports and recommendations based on their findings.

Additionally, if you notice your symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to consult a medical professional for further evaluation. They may recommend allergy testing or other diagnostic procedures to better understand the underlying causes of your discomfort.

To manage your exposure in the meantime, consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters indoors and wearing masks when outside during periods of high dust activity. Regularly cleaning surfaces and clothes can also help reduce dust accumulation in your living spaces.

Remember that maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial for overall health, especially in regions prone to such weather events. If you find Saniservice's contact details unhelpful or if no local services are available, feel free to reach out directly through their email address: hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 13, 2025 3:38 pm