Could dampness be harming our family's health?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent dampness in the corner of our bedroom, which has since developed a musty smell that lingers even after airing out. The AC in my apartment seems to struggle with humidity, making it difficult to breathe comfortably, especially at night when we're trying to sleep. My kids have been coughing frequently, and I can’t help but wonder if the mold or dust from the damp area is affecting their health. Could this musty smell and dampness be causing my family’s respiratory issues?
Posted by Divya Mukherjee
Asked on January 18, 2026 2:27 pm
Could dampness be harming our family's health? Yes, it is very plausible. Damp conditions such as those you've described can indeed lead to adverse effects on respiratory health and overall well-being. In the UAE context, especially in Dubai, where we experience significant humidity fluctuations, maintaining indoor air quality becomes critical.

The musty smell that you're experiencing could be a sign of mold growth, which thrives in damp environments. Mold spores can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, exacerbating existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or allergies. Children are often more susceptible to these effects due to their smaller airways and developing immune systems.

In your case, the frequent coughing from your kids could be linked to mold exposure or even dust mites that thrive in damp areas. Dust mite allergens can also cause respiratory issues similar to those caused by molds.

To address this issue effectively, a professional inspection is highly recommended. In the UAE, companies like Saniservice (call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) specialize in environmental inspections and remediation services. They use advanced techniques such as thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify hidden dampness areas that may not be visibly obvious.

Once the source of the problem is identified, appropriate steps can be taken. This might involve removing mold growth by sanitizing or replacing affected materials, improving ventilation systems, and adjusting humidity levels with dehumidifiers or air conditioning units designed for high-humidity environments like Dubai.

Regular maintenance of your HVAC system is crucial as well. Ensure that filters are changed regularly and consider using an AC unit equipped with a HEPA filter to trap particulates including mold spores and dust mites.

In conclusion, addressing the dampness promptly can greatly improve indoor air quality and potentially alleviate symptoms experienced by you and your family. Remember that prevention is key; maintaining optimal humidity levels within your home will help in minimizing such issues.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 20, 2026 5:46 am