Should I worry about my son's cough and bedroom mold?« Back to Previous Page

My 5-year-old son has had a constant runny nose and this dry, hacking cough for almost two weeks now. It always gets way worse at night in his bedroom, and I’ve noticed a few small, dark spots on the wall near his window. We’re in an older building in Deira. Should I be rushing him to a doctor or is this just a typical Dubai thing that will pass?
Posted by John Torres
Asked on March 12, 2026 11:59 pm
Based on your description, this is a situation that warrants serious attention and you should absolutely consult your pediatrician immediately for your son's health. The symptoms you describe – a persistent runny nose and a dry, hacking cough that exacerbates at night – are classic indicators of prolonged exposure to a poor indoor air environment, which in your case is highly likely linked to the microbial growth (those dark spots) in his bedroom.

The UAE's hot and humid climate, especially in older buildings in areas like Deira, creates a perfect breeding ground for mold, particularly around windows where condensation often forms. This isn't just a "typical Dubai thing"; it's a legitimate indoor environmental quality issue. The mycotoxins and spores released by mold colonies can cause significant respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and can severely aggravate asthma, particularly in young children whose systems are more vulnerable.

While a doctor will treat the symptoms, the root cause must be addressed professionally. DIY cleaning is not advised as it can disturb the spores and cause a wider contamination. According to UAE health and safety guidelines, persistent dampness and mold growth in a tenant's unit is a matter for the landlord to rectify. However, identification and remediation must be handled by certified professionals to ensure it is done safely and effectively. We use specialized equipment like moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to find the source of the moisture and HEPA filtration units to contain the area during removal.

I strongly recommend you get a professional indoor environmental inspection. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment. Your son's long-term health is paramount.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 15, 2026 10:46 am