Could this mold cause our coughing and sore throats?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold you've found is very likely contributing to your family's coughing, sore throats, and headaches. The black spots behind the wardrobe and the strong musty smell confirm a significant growth, which releases spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) into the air you breathe. These are known irritants that commonly cause the exact respiratory symptoms you're describing.

The recent high humidity is a key factor. Dubai's climate, especially during the summer months, creates ideal conditions for mold growth indoors. This happens through condensation, often on cooler surfaces like walls behind furniture or within AC units that cycle on and off. The wardrobe acts as a trap, insulating the wall and creating a cold spot where moisture from the humid air condenses, providing the dampness mold needs to thrive. When the AC turns off, the room's humidity rises, which is why the musty odor becomes more pronounced as the mold becomes more active.

For a situation involving persistent health symptoms and visible growth, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They can identify the moisture source, assess the extent of the growth (which is often more widespread than the visible spots), and take air or surface samples for lab analysis. This analysis is crucial as it identifies the specific type of mold present, which determines the appropriate remediation strategy. In the UAE, remediation should follow standards like the IICRC S520 to ensure it is handled safely and effectively, preventing spores from spreading to other areas of your home during cleanup.

Until a professional can assess, improve ventilation in the room by opening windows when outdoor humidity is lower (typically early morning or late evening) and ensure your AC is set to a consistently cool temperature to reduce condensation. Do not attempt to clean significant growth yourself with bleach, as this can agitate the spores and potentially worsen the air quality without addressing the root moisture problem.