Could hidden mold be causing my kids' constant cough?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, hidden mold is a very likely cause of your children's persistent coughs and sore throats. In Dubai's high humidity, especially in older Deira buildings, condensation often forms on cooler interior walls, creating the perfect environment for mold growth behind furniture.

The type of mold matters. While many common household molds are irritants, some species like Aspergillus can produce more significant respiratory issues. The constant exposure while they sleep means they are breathing in mold spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) all night, which directly irritates the airways and can trigger a chronic, non-productive cough.

Your first step is to stop the exposure immediately. Keep the beds away from the wall and improve air circulation in the room. Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach, as disturbing it will release a large number of spores into the air. For a growth that size, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to identify the species and the moisture source. They can safely contain and remove the contaminated materials. To address the root cause, have the wall checked for a possible leak or insufficient insulation causing the condensation. Using a dehumidifier can help manage the indoor humidity level long-term.