Could mold cause my daughter's coughing?« Back to Previous Page

Certainly, mold can indeed cause respiratory issues like coughing and difficulty breathing, especially for individuals who have pre-existing conditions such as asthma. In the UAE context, particularly in Dubai, we experience significant temperature fluctuations and occasional heavy rainfalls which could lead to moisture buildup in enclosed spaces like bedroom closets.

Mold spores can trigger an immune response leading to inflammation in the airways, causing symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. These symptoms are often exacerbated at night due to changes in indoor humidity and temperature as well as the tendency for people to keep their windows closed during cooler nights, trapping mold spores indoors.

Given your situation in Dubai where you've noticed a musty smell and visible mold growth on the walls of your daughter's bedroom closet after recent rainfalls, it is highly likely that she could be experiencing mold-induced asthma. Persistent coughing at night is particularly indicative of this possibility given her environment.

It is crucial to address this issue promptly. While some mild cases might respond to simple home remedies such as using a dehumidifier and ensuring adequate ventilation, more serious cases would benefit from professional assessment and remediation services.

In the UAE, it's advisable to contact certified professionals for mold inspection and removal. Saniservice, based in Dubai, is highly recommended; their contact details are 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 or you can email them at hello@saniservice.com. They will conduct a thorough assessment of your home's moisture levels and identify any active mold colonies.

In the meantime, here are some immediate steps you can take:
1. Ensure good air circulation by opening windows during dry days.
2. Use dehumidifiers to keep indoor humidity below 50%.
3. Avoid using carpeting in areas prone to moisture accumulation like your daughter's closet.
4. Dry any damp or wet items immediately and avoid storing excessive amounts of textiles.

Remember, maintaining a clean and mold-free environment is key not only for respiratory health but also for overall wellbeing, especially during such weather conditions prevalent in Dubai.