Could my twins' cough be from AC or construction dust?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description, it is highly plausible that your twins' symptoms are being exacerbated or directly caused by indoor environmental factors, specifically related to the AC system and/or construction dust infiltration.

In the UAE, the combination of a sealed AC environment and nearby construction is a classic recipe for indoor air quality (IAQ) issues. Construction dust is a complex mixture of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), silica, and other irritants that can easily infiltrate villas through gaps in windows, doors, and even the AC intake itself. When the AC is running continuously, it can continuously recirculate these particles throughout the home. Furthermore, if the AC system's filters are not high-efficiency and changed frequently (at least every 3 months in Dubai), they become overwhelmed, allowing dust to pass through. A dirty AC evaporator coil can also become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, which are then aerosolized and can cause persistent respiratory irritation, especially at night when the system cycles.

The nighttime worsening is a significant clue, as this is when they are exposed for a prolonged period to the air in their bedroom. For a definitive answer, a professional inspection is crucial. We would conduct airborne particulate monitoring to quantify the dust levels and perform AC system swab testing to check for microbial contamination.

Given their young age and persistent symptoms, I strongly recommend an assessment. Please call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. In the interim, consider upgrading to a MERV 13 rated filter for your AC unit if possible and ensure all windows are sealed.