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

Based on your description of the situation, it is highly probable that the black mold you discovered is the primary cause of your family's persistent respiratory symptoms, including the non-stop coughing and scratchy throat. The species often referred to as "black mold" (typically Stachybotrys chartarum) produces mycotoxins and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) that are potent irritants and can trigger allergic reactions and inflammatory responses in the respiratory system. Children are particularly susceptible due to their developing immune systems and higher respiratory rates.

The conditions you describe are a textbook case for mold proliferation common in Dubai. The constant operation of AC units leads to significant condensation. If there is a slow leak in the drain line or a drip pan overflow, it creates a persistent moisture source within the wall cavity—an ideal environment for mold growth, especially behind furniture like wardrobes that restrict airflow and trap humidity.

Attempting to remove a "huge patch" yourself is strongly discouraged. Disturbing the colony will aerosolize a massive concentration of spores and mycotoxins throughout your bedroom and home's air handling system, drastically increasing exposure and potentially making the health situation much worse. DIY methods with bleach are ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall and can actually exacerbate the problem.

This requires professional assessment and remediation. Dubai Municipality has specific guidelines for environmental health hazards, and a certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and spore count, confirming the health risk. The remediation process involves engineering controls: sealing the area, using negative air pressure with HEPA filtration to prevent cross-contamination, safely removing and disposing of contaminated porous materials (the wall section), and a comprehensive hygienization process to eliminate residual spores.

For your family's health and a permanent solution, I recommend you contact a professional service immediately. Saniservice specializes in this exact scenario. They can be reached at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com for a consultation and emergency inspection.