Could desert dust be causing my kids' coughs?« Back to Previous Page

After the sandstorm last week, I noticed a fine dust settling on everything in our living room. Even with the windows and doors tightly closed, there’s still a layer of it on the coffee table and my son’s toys. My kids have been coughing more than usual lately, and I’m worried it might be because of all this desert dust. Could this really be causing their symptoms?
Posted by Tomasz Bernard
Asked on January 16, 2026 2:47 pm
0
Certainly! Desert dust can indeed be causing your kids' coughs. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, we often experience periods of high sand and dust levels due to regional weather patterns like sandstorms or even just strong winds blowing across desert areas.

The fine particles in desert dust can irritate respiratory passages and trigger coughing. These particles might contain allergens, microorganisms, and other pollutants that could be exacerbating your children's symptoms. The situation is particularly concerning given their increased susceptibility to respiratory issues.

Given the recent sandstorm you mentioned, it's not surprising to find a layer of desert dust on surfaces in your living room despite having tightly closed windows and doors. Dust particles can enter through small gaps or even via air conditioning systems if they aren't properly filtered.

To address this issue effectively, I recommend scheduling a professional indoor environmental inspection. In the UAE, companies like Saniservice can provide detailed assessments of air quality and identify potential sources of irritation in your home. They might also suggest ways to improve filtration systems or other measures to reduce dust levels.

In addition to professional help, here are some practical steps you can take:
1. Increase indoor humidity using a humidifier; this can help keep the air moisture level at about 40-50% which reduces dust mites and allergens.
2. Use HEPA filters in your air conditioning units or install standalone portable ones to capture fine particles.
3. Regularly clean surfaces with damp cloths, which help trap more dust than dry sweeping.
4. Ensure that outdoor activities are limited during high dust periods if possible.

Remember, if symptoms persist despite these measures, it might be wise to consult a healthcare professional for further advice tailored to your family's needs.

Feel free to reach out to Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for more information and assistance.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 18, 2026 5:22 am