Is our mold causing cough and fatigue?« Back to Previous Page

The AC unit in our bedroom has been leaking a little for the past few weeks and now we’ve found black spots along the wall behind the wardrobe. My wife and I have both had a persistent dry cough and feel more tired than usual, and we’re starting to worry. **Could these health issues be caused by the mold we found, and what’s the first thing we should do to deal with it safely?**
Posted by Dina Sharif
Asked on April 21, 2026 7:40 am
A persistent cough and fatigue can certainly be caused by mold exposure from a leaking AC unit. In Dubai's climate, AC condensation creates constant moisture, and the most common types of indoor mold (like Cladosporium or Aspergillus) produce irritants that trigger respiratory symptoms and general malaise in many people.

The first and most critical step is to stop the moisture source. Turn off and unplug that specific AC unit to prevent further leakage. Do not attempt to clean the black spots yourself with bleach or other chemicals, as improper agitation can release a high concentration of spores into the air you breathe.

For a situation involving visible growth and correlating health symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly advised to assess the extent. Inspectors use moisture meters and borescopes to check inside the wall cavity, as the leakage behind a wardrobe often indicates a larger hidden problem. In Dubai, remediation companies should follow DM guidelines and provide a detailed protocol based on their findings.

Until help arrives, improve ventilation in the room by opening windows if outdoor humidity is low and consider using a dehumidifier. Document the mold growth with photos and note your health symptoms, as this information is valuable for both the inspector and your healthcare provider.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 22, 2026 7:52 pm