Mold under carpet causing kids' cough? See doctor?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and I’m starting to worry. I just pulled back the corner of the carpet in our bedroom in Jumeirah and found a huge patch of black mold underneath, probably from a slow AC leak we never noticed. It smells really damp and earthy. Could this be the reason for their constant cold-like symptoms and should we see a doctor immediately?
Posted by Nancy Torres
Asked on May 8, 2026 3:10 am
Yes, the mold under your carpet is very likely contributing to your children's persistent cough and cold-like symptoms. In Dubai's humid climate, hidden mold from AC condensation leaks is a common trigger for respiratory irritation, especially in children who are more sensitive to airborne spores.

You should see a pediatrician and inform them about the mold discovery. The constant exposure means they are inhaling spores and mycotoxins, which can cause allergic reactions, sinus congestion, and bronchitis. A doctor can assess if they need treatment for mold exposure.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself. Disturbing a large patch releases a massive amount of spores into your home's air. For a case this serious, with visible growth and a known moisture source, professional remediation is necessary. The process involves containment, safe removal of contaminated materials like the carpet and padding, HEPA vacuuming, and addressing the AC leak to prevent recurrence.

In the UAE, reputable remediation companies should follow standards like the IICRC S520 and provide before-and-after testing to verify the spore count in your indoor air has been returned to safe levels. Your first step is to get a qualified inspector to assess the full extent.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 10, 2026 8:46 pm