Could high humidity cause our symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

High humidity levels within your home can indeed cause the symptoms that your family has been experiencing. In the UAE and specifically in Dubai, high humidity is a common issue due to the climate conditions and often contributes significantly to respiratory issues, headaches, and fatigue.

In your case, it's highly probable that the high humidity levels are contributing to these health concerns. Excess moisture can lead to mold growth, which emits spores and irritants that may trigger allergic reactions or exacerbate existing respiratory problems like asthma. Additionally, increased humidity levels can promote bacterial and viral growth, potentially leading to infections.

To properly assess your home's indoor environment for high humidity, it would be prudent to conduct a professional inspection. You might consider contacting companies specializing in environmental inspections such as Saniservice, who offer services including moisture testing, mold assessment, and HVAC system evaluation. Their expertise can help identify the source of excessive moisture and recommend remediation strategies.

For immediate relief from your symptoms, you could start by using a dehumidifier to lower the humidity levels within your home. Opt for models with an automatic shut-off feature to ensure they don't empty their tanks into uncontrolled areas. Regularly cleaning these units is crucial to prevent bacterial growth.

Maintaining proper ventilation in your home can also help reduce moisture levels, especially after showering or cooking. Opening windows when the outdoor humidity is lower than indoor humidity can be beneficial. However, during high humidity periods, consider using exhaust fans and dehumidifiers instead of opening windows to avoid bringing in external moisture.

It's important to keep an eye on your home’s relative humidity (RH) levels. Ideally, they should remain between 30-50%. You can use a hygrometer to monitor these levels. If the RH consistently stays above 60%, it might indicate excessive moisture that needs attention.

Lastly, ensure your building's envelope is in good condition to prevent water intrusion from external sources. Checking for leaks or damage around windows and doors, as well as addressing any issues with plumbing, can significantly reduce indoor humidity.

Remember, if symptoms persist despite these measures, a visit to the doctor could be necessary to rule out other health conditions.