Is this mold making me sick and how to clean it?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the black mold and your symptoms are very likely connected. The persistent moisture from your AC leak creates an ideal environment for mold growth, and common species like Cladosporium or Aspergillus found in such situations are known to cause the exact symptoms you describe—throat irritation, headaches, and congestion, especially upon waking.

In Dubai's humid climate, AC units are a primary source of indoor condensation, making leaks a frequent cause of hidden mold problems in apartments, particularly in older buildings in areas like Deira. The first step is to stop the moisture source; you must have the AC leak repaired by a certified HVAC technician before any cleaning can begin.

For a patch of this size and given your health reaction, professional remediation is strongly advised. DIY cleaning often disperses spores and fails to address the root problem. Look for a provider that offers a clear process: isolation of the area with physical barriers, HEPA filtration to capture airborne spores, safe removal of contaminated materials like drywall, and a final verification test to confirm spore counts are back to normal levels. This last step is critical—any reputable company should be able to provide a post-remediation verification report from an independent lab.

Be wary of companies that just spray a biocide and leave. The most credible operators will explain their methods, hold certifications from bodies like the IICRC, and their value is in providing documented proof that the environment has been returned to a safe, healthy state.