Should high humidity cause coughing?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains we had last month, I noticed a mildew smell lingering in my bedroom closet. The humidity has been pretty high lately, and now both of my kids have started coughing during the night. It’s really worrying me, especially since they’re still at home from school due to the weather. Is there anything specific I should be looking out for or doing to ensure their health isn’t affected by this?
Posted by Sara Nasser
Asked on January 15, 2026 6:21 pm
0
Yes, high humidity can indeed cause coughing. In Dubai and the UAE, we often experience fluctuations in weather conditions which can lead to higher levels of moisture in the air. This increased moisture provides a perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew growth, especially in areas like your bedroom closet.

Given what you've described - a lingering mildew smell along with your kids having night-time coughs while at home, it's important to take some steps to ensure their health isn't compromised by these indoor environmental issues. High humidity levels can lead to respiratory irritations and exacerbate existing conditions in children, which seems to be the case here.

Firstly, I would recommend assessing the level of moisture in your closet and other areas where you've noticed an issue. You might want to use a hygrometer - this simple device can help monitor the humidity levels around your home. In Dubai, it's common for relative humidity to stay above 60% during certain times of the year. If readings are consistently high, especially in damp or enclosed spaces like your closet, then addressing this is crucial.

Secondly, I suggest improving ventilation within and around the closet. Open windows slightly if possible, use exhaust fans when bathing or cooking, or consider installing dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. This can help prevent mold growth and alleviate symptoms associated with high humidity.

Additionally, it's worth noting that some UAE regulations do require certain measures for indoor air quality. For instance, the Building Code of Dubai (BCD) emphasizes the importance of proper ventilation systems in buildings to maintain a healthy living environment. If you're unsure about compliance or if your issue persists despite efforts, then I recommend contacting professionals like Saniservice for an inspection and remediation service.

To avoid any further complications, it's advisable to act quickly on these issues. Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for immediate assistance. Ensuring the health of your family is paramount, especially during times when environmental conditions can be less than ideal due to weather events like recent heavy rains.

Remember, maintaining a dry and clean environment in your home is key to keeping everyone healthy. Keep an eye on moisture levels and take proactive steps to keep the air you breathe as clean and fresh as possible.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 20, 2026 11:04 am