Could mold cause our symptoms?« Back to Previous Page
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After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell in the corner of my bedroom closet. My kids have been complaining about coughing fits lately, especially when they spend time in that part of the house. Given our history of living here for 2 years without issues, this new development is concerning me. Could mold be the cause of these symptoms? What should I do to address it and ensure my family’s health?
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Absolutely, mold can indeed cause the symptoms your family is experiencing. The presence of a musty smell and the recent heavy rains provide strong indicators that there might be moisture issues leading to mold growth in your closet area. In the UAE, especially in Dubai, such conditions are not uncommon given the climate and seasonal weather patterns.
Firstly, it's crucial to understand how mold can affect human health. Mold spores are commonly found in indoor air and on surfaces but when they grow excessively due to moisture, they can produce allergens that irritate the eyes, nose, and lungs. This could explain your kids' coughing fits. Additionally, certain types of molds can produce mycotoxins which might lead to more severe health issues, though such cases are less common. Given the concerns you've raised, it would be advisable to conduct a thorough inspection by a certified professional. In Dubai and the UAE in general, there isn't specific regulation mandating regular mold inspections, but taking preventative measures is highly recommended for your family's health. You might want to call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. To address this issue yourself until a professional can assess the situation, here are some practical steps: 1. Ensure proper ventilation in the closet area and throughout your home. 2. Use dehumidifiers if you notice high humidity levels. 3. Clean any visible mold growth with a solution of water and detergent or use a commercial mold cleaner following the manufacturer's instructions. 4. Remove any water-damaged materials that can't be cleaned effectively. Remember, when dealing with large areas of mold or when symptoms persist despite your efforts, professional remediation is necessary to ensure thorough treatment and safety for you and your family. Taking these steps will help mitigate the issue until a professional can assess the situation thoroughly. Stay informed about local weather conditions and maintain good indoor air quality practices to prevent future occurrences. |
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