Is the mold causing our coughs and fatigue?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing non-stop for the last three weeks and we just can't shake it. I pulled their wooden wardrobe away from the wall in our Deira apartment and found a huge patch of black, fuzzy mold hiding behind it, probably from the humidity. We've all been feeling more tired than usual and I'm starting to get worried.
**Could this mold be the cause of our coughs and fatigue, and is it something I can clean myself or do I absolutely need to call a professional?**
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Based on your description, it is highly probable that the black mold behind the wardrobe is the cause of your family's persistent cough and fatigue. The fuzzy, black growth is a clear indicator of active fungal colonization, and the symptoms you describe—particularly a lingering cough and unexplained tiredness—are classic signs of exposure to mold spores and their associated mycotoxins, which act as respiratory irritants and can trigger systemic inflammatory responses.
In Dubai's climate, this is an extremely common issue. The high humidity, especially in older buildings in areas like Deira, combined with condensation from year-round AC use, creates the perfect environment for mold growth behind furniture and on cold walls. Attempting to clean this yourself is strongly discouraged for several reasons. Disturbing the colony will aerosolize a massive quantity of spores, significantly increasing your family's exposure and potentially spreading the contamination throughout the apartment. Furthermore, without specialized equipment like HEPA vacuums and antimicrobial agents, you will not address the root cause or remove the spores, leading to rapid regrowth. For a confirmed infestation of this nature, a professional inspection and remediation are not just recommended but necessary. UAE regulations, particularly Dubai Municipality's public health and safety codes, emphasize the importance of proper indoor air quality management. A certified professional will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and the full extent of the contamination, which is often far greater than what is visible. They will then execute a controlled remediation process, including containment, removal, and hygienization to ensure the problem is resolved safely and completely. For immediate assistance, I recommend contacting Saniservice. Their certified team can provide a thorough assessment and a permanent solution. You can reach them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com. |
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