Could this bathroom mold cause my kids' coughing?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold behind your silicone sealant is a very likely cause of the persistent coughing and itchy eyes in your children. Bathroom mold, especially the common black variety (often Cladosporium or Aspergillus), releases spores and microscopic fragments that are potent irritants to the respiratory system and eyes. Children are particularly susceptible due to their developing lungs and immune systems.

The conditions you describe—a windowless bathroom with poor ventilation—create a perfect environment for mold in Dubai's high humidity. Daily showers generate significant moisture that gets trapped, especially behind non-porous sealant, allowing hidden colonies to thrive. This constant exposure to a high concentration of spores in a confined space directly explains the ongoing symptoms.

For your family's health, this requires immediate action. Do not attempt to remove large growths yourself, as this can aerosolize a massive amount of spores. A professional inspection can identify the full extent of the problem, often using moisture meters to find hidden dampness in walls. The contaminated silicone must be completely removed, the area properly treated with antimicrobial solutions, and new sealant applied. Critically, you must address the source: repair or upgrade the exhaust fan to one powerful enough to clear steam effectively (measured in CFM), and run it for at least 30 minutes after each shower. Wiping down wet surfaces after use will also help reduce moisture. Resolving the ventilation is the only long-term solution to prevent rapid regrowth in our climate.