Could this mold be causing our persistent coughs and headaches?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold you found is very likely the cause of the persistent coughs and headaches. Mold releases microscopic spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) into the air, which are known respiratory irritants. In the confined space of a bedroom, with constant exposure over a month, these irritants can cause exactly the symptoms you describe, especially in children.

Given the humid Dubai climate and the fact it's behind a wardrobe—a classic spot for hidden condensation from AC units—this points to a significant moisture issue. The mold you see is just the visible colony; the hidden moisture problem and potential spread of spores inside the wall cavity are the greater concerns.

Do not clean this yourself. Disturbing it without proper containment will aerosolize a massive amount of spores throughout your home, drastically increasing your family's exposure. Over-the-counter sprays often only bleach the visible surface without addressing the root moisture or the hyphae (roots) growing deep within porous materials like drywall.

The correct approach is a professional inspection to identify the exact moisture source (likely a leaking AC drain line or condensation) and assess the full extent of the contamination. For a patch described as "huge," remediation should include containment barriers, HEPA filtration to capture airborne spores, and safe removal of affected porous materials. Always verify that the company uses post-remediation verification testing, like air or surface sampling analyzed by a third-party lab, to confirm the environment has been returned to a safe condition. This is the only way to be certain the problem is resolved for your family's health.