Could poor ventilation cause these symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm a few weeks ago, we've noticed an odd, almost musty odor lingering in our second-floor apartment. My spouse has started experiencing persistent coughing and mild headaches, especially after being inside longer periods. We’ve checked for any obvious sources like mold but couldn’t find anything. Is it possible that this could be related to poor ventilation or some other maintenance issue?
Posted by Lauren Scott
Asked on January 20, 2026 11:50 am
0
Yes, poor ventilation can absolutely cause symptoms like the musty odor and your spouse's coughing and headaches. In dubai, it’s quite common to experience high humidity levels and dust storms which can affect indoor air quality. The UAE building code requires that buildings be properly ventilated to prevent moisture buildup and reduce pollutants, but sometimes these systems can become clogged or not functioning as intended.

The musty odor you're experiencing might suggest a buildup of dampness in the walls or some hidden areas of your apartment. This could be caused by poor ventilation or an issue with the air conditioning system not removing enough humidity from the air. The coughing and headaches your spouse is having can definitely be related to this, as both conditions are common when exposed to poor indoor air quality.

It’s important to note that in the UAE, especially during dust storms, it's crucial to maintain good ventilation to prevent any potential health issues. A dehumidifier might help reduce moisture levels and alleviate some of these symptoms temporarily, but a thorough inspection is highly recommended to identify the root cause.

If you suspect poor ventilation or other maintenance issues, I strongly recommend contacting a professional environmental inspection and remediation company. At Saniservice, we offer comprehensive building inspections that can pinpoint any hidden problems such as dampness or mold growth behind walls. Our team of experts will ensure your indoor environment is healthy and safe for living.

You can reach us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Early detection and addressing issues like poor ventilation are key in maintaining a healthy home environment, especially during such challenging weather conditions as the dust storms we experience here in dubai.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 25, 2026 9:36 am