Is high humidity causing my kids' coughs?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain we had last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from my bedroom closet. Even with the AC running non-stop, the air feels sticky and humid, especially during the evening when it’s supposed to cool down. My kids have been coughing more frequently lately, and I’m starting to wonder if it could be related to the high humidity levels. Could this be causing respiratory issues for them, or am I just being overly cautious?
Posted by Jennifer Moore
Asked on December 31, 2025 4:40 pm
High humidity levels can indeed contribute to respiratory issues and discomfort, especially for children. The musty smell you've noticed along with the frequent coughing could be directly linked to the high humidity levels post-rain in your area. In Dubai, it's not uncommon to experience such conditions during the monsoon season or after heavy rainfall events.

In a place like the UAE, where we have significant temperature fluctuations and high humidity, moisture can quickly accumulate indoors, leading to the growth of mold and mildew. These microorganisms release spores into the air which can irritate the respiratory system, causing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and even asthma attacks in sensitive individuals.

Given your concerns about potential health impacts on your children, a professional indoor environmental quality inspection would be prudent. Such an assessment could help determine if there are hidden sources of moisture or mold growth that need addressing. The UAE has specific regulations regarding building and environmental standards, but ensuring compliance requires a thorough evaluation by experts familiar with local conditions.

Regular maintenance practices like checking for leaks, dehumidifying areas prone to moisture (like basements), and using air conditioning systems efficiently can significantly reduce indoor humidity levels. However, relying on AC alone might not be enough given the recent weather events in your area.

If you decide to proceed, contacting a professional service provider such as Saniservice or calling 800-MOLDS could facilitate this process. These services offer comprehensive inspections and remediation for mold and moisture issues, ensuring that both short-term relief and long-term solutions are addressed.

Remember, maintaining an indoor relative humidity level below 60% is generally recommended to minimize the risk of mold growth and associated health issues. Utilizing dehumidifiers in conjunction with air conditioning can help achieve this target, particularly during humid periods.

In summary, while high humidity might not be the sole cause of your children's coughs, it certainly plays a significant role. Addressing this issue through professional means could provide relief and ensure the overall health and comfort of your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 2, 2026 1:53 pm