What are the health symptoms of black mold exposure?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and my own allergies are going crazy, especially at night. We just pulled our sofa away from the wall in our Deira apartment and found a huge patch of black mold hidden behind it, probably from a slow leak we never noticed. I’m really worried this is what’s making us sick. What specific health symptoms should we be looking out for that are directly caused by mold exposure?
Posted by Varun Chauhan
Asked on May 8, 2026 4:45 am
Persistent coughing and worsened allergies, especially at night, are classic symptoms of mold exposure. The most common reactions are respiratory: nasal congestion, sneezing, throat irritation, and wheezing. Skin irritation like rashes or itchy eyes can also occur. For individuals with asthma or pre-existing conditions, exposure can trigger more severe attacks. The hidden mold behind your sofa is a significant source of airborne spores that you are continuously breathing, particularly in a climate like Dubai's where apartments are sealed with AC recirculating the contaminated air.

Given the climate, hidden mold growth from condensation or slow leaks is unfortunately common in Deira's older buildings. The constant high humidity and cool AC surfaces create an ideal environment for it to thrive behind furniture or within walls. You should also inspect behind other large items, under sinks, and around AC units for other hidden patches.

While many molds are irritants, the specific species matters for potential severity. A professional inspection and lab test can identify the type of mold present, which is crucial for understanding the health risk and planning the correct remediation method. For a confirmed case of widespread growth, especially with the symptoms you describe, professional remediation is strongly advised to properly contain the area, remove the source, and verify the spore count has returned to a safe level.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 11, 2026 3:21 am