Could this mold cause our persistent cough and allergies?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past two weeks and my own allergies are going crazy. I finally pulled out the sofa bed in our Deira apartment to change the sheets and found a huge patch of black, fuzzy mold all along the wall behind it, probably from the AC unit condensation. We’ve lived here for two years and just noticed it. Could this mold be the cause of our breathing issues and what’s the safest way to clean it without making us sicker?
Posted by Megan Lee
Asked on April 3, 2026 10:20 pm
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the black mold discovered behind your sofa bed is the primary cause of the persistent coughing and allergic reactions you and your children are experiencing. The species often referred to as "black mold" is Stachybotrys chartarum, which produces mycotoxins and can trigger severe respiratory issues, including chronic cough, wheezing, nasal congestion, and throat irritation, especially in individuals with allergies or compromised immune systems.

The environment you've described is a classic scenario in Dubai. The constant operation of AC units leads to significant condensation, particularly on cold walls and in poorly ventilated spaces like behind large furniture. This creates a perpetually damp microclimate, which is the perfect breeding ground for mold. The fact that the infestation is extensive and has been growing unnoticed for a potential two-year period means the spore concentration in your apartment's air is likely very high, leading to the symptoms you report.

Attempting to clean a significant growth yourself is strongly discouraged. Disturbing the colony will aerosolize a massive quantity of spores and mycotoxins, drastically increasing your exposure and potentially making the health situation much worse. For a case of this magnitude, a professional inspection and remediation are imperative.

Our certified team at Saniservice uses specialized equipment like moisture meters and borescopes to identify the full extent of the infestation and the moisture source. Remediation involves advanced containment procedures, HEPA filtration to capture airborne spores, and the use of professional-grade antimicrobial agents to safely remove the biofilm. We strongly recommend you call us for a comprehensive assessment. Please contact our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection and ensure your family's health is protected.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 5, 2026 2:42 am