Could damp smell be causing kids' coughs?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy storms last month, I noticed a strange damp smell lingering in our ground-floor living room. The windows didn't seem to be the issue since they were all tightly shut, but now my kids have been complaining of coughing fits, especially at night. Could this be related to indoor air quality? What should we do to improve it?
Posted by Isabelle Robert
Asked on December 27, 2025 8:25 am
0
Absolutely, the damp smell could indeed be linked to your kids' coughing fits. In the UAE, especially during such weather conditions as recent storms, humidity levels can fluctuate dramatically and create a breeding ground for mold spores. Mold thrives in warm, humid environments – exactly what we see post-storms in Dubai.

The symptoms you're noticing, like persistent coughing, are common signs of indoor air quality issues. Here’s why this might be happening: The damp smell often indicates the presence of moisture or possibly even active mold growth within your home's hidden areas, such as behind walls, under carpets, or around plumbing fixtures. Mold can produce allergens and irritants that trigger respiratory problems in children, especially those who are already more susceptible due to their growing immune systems.

To address this, I'd advise taking immediate action:

1. Assess the situation: While it may seem like your windows being shut tight would stop outside moisture from entering, indoor sources of dampness can still pose a problem. Check for leaks around faucets or air conditioning units and ensure that there’s proper ventilation in your home.

2. Drying out the space: Use dehumidifiers to help reduce humidity levels, which is key to preventing mold growth. Aim for relative humidity below 60%. Opening windows during less humid periods can also be beneficial.

3. Professional inspection: Given the possibility of hidden moisture or mold, it would be prudent to seek a professional inspection. In Dubai and the UAE, regulations require that any building with suspected water damage should undergo thorough assessments by licensed professionals. Saniservice is one such company providing comprehensive environmental inspections; their contact details are 800-MOLDS or you can email them at hello@saniservice.com.

4. Address mold issues: If mold is found, removal must be done carefully to avoid spreading spores. Saniservice offers remediation services that adhere to the latest UAE standards and guidelines for mold control.

5. Regular maintenance: Keep up with regular cleaning of your home’s surfaces and ensure good airflow through proper ventilation systems.

Remember, maintaining indoor air quality is crucial for everyone's health, especially during times like these when our homes may become more susceptible to moisture-related issues. Taking proactive steps can help alleviate the current situation and prevent future occurrences.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com today if you need immediate assistance!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 29, 2025 9:44 pm