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

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell in our master bedroom, especially during the evenings. The humidity levels seem really high, even though we keep the AC on full blast. My kids have been complaining of chest congestion and coughing more often lately. Could this be linked to the high humidity?
Posted by Arun Joshi
Asked on January 8, 2026 12:07 pm
High humidity levels can indeed contribute to the symptoms you've described. In the UAE, particularly in areas like Dubai where we experience significant temperature fluctuations and sometimes unexpected rainfall events, maintaining optimal indoor environmental quality is crucial for both comfort and health.

The musty smell and increased chest congestion and coughing experienced by your children could be directly linked to elevated humidity levels. High moisture content can lead to mold growth, which often produces spores that can irritate the respiratory system, especially in children who are more susceptible due to their smaller airways. Furthermore, high humidity can also promote dust mite proliferation, another common allergen.

In Dubai, the UAE Building Code does not specifically mandate a certain level of indoor relative humidity; however, comfort standards often recommend keeping it below 60% to reduce mold and dust mite growth. Your AC running on full blast might be insufficient in controlling this issue due to the nature of air conditioning systems which primarily address temperature rather than moisture content.

For accurate assessment and remediation steps, I strongly recommend professional inspection by a certified environmental expert. Such professionals can conduct detailed moisture mapping using advanced equipment like infrared cameras or humidity sensors to pinpoint areas with high humidity and potential mold growth. They can also provide guidance on effective dehumidification strategies tailored for your home's specific conditions.

Given the situation in your master bedroom, it would be prudent to invest in a portable dehumidifier that can target this area specifically. Additionally, regular maintenance of your HVAC system includes checking for leaks and ensuring proper drainage is crucial. Also, consider using air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters to capture fine particles including mold spores.

Should you decide to address the issue yourself before hiring professionals, ensure good indoor ventilation by opening windows (when weather permits) or running exhaust fans during activities that produce moisture like cooking or showering. Regularly cleaning and drying surfaces can also prevent water accumulation which may lead to mold growth.

If symptoms persist despite these measures, please do not hesitate to contact us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for further assistance. We are here to help ensure your family's health and comfort in the humid conditions of Dubai.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 9, 2026 12:11 pm