Is my husband's cough from apartment mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The symptoms you describe—a persistent stuffy nose and cough—are very commonly associated with prolonged exposure to the type of mold growing from a chronic AC leak. The high humidity and constant cooling cycles in Dubai create a perfect environment for this, as condensation issues are widespread. Your husband's symptoms are a typical immune response to inhaling mold spores and microbial fragments.

For a situation this advanced, with visible growth inside the wall, a professional inspection is the necessary first step. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as disturbing it can release a significant amount of spores into the air. In Dubai, remediation companies should follow international standards like the IICRC S520 for mold removal. The fastest way to get a definitive answer is to have a certified inspector conduct a visual assessment and take air and surface samples for analysis at a microbiology lab. This lab report will identify the mold species and spore concentration, which is critical for guiding the proper remediation protocol and for your medical provider.

The remediation process will involve isolating the area, removing the contaminated drywall and insulation, HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial treatment. The AC unit and ductwork must also be inspected and cleaned to prevent recurrence. Once the source is fixed and the mold is professionally removed, most people see a noticeable improvement in respiratory symptoms within a relatively short timeframe.