Could dust storm residue cause my kids' coughs?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent dust storms we had, my living room has this weird lingering smell that doesn't seem to go away even with cleaning. The AC filters are pretty dirty, but it still smells musty near the windowsills where the sand got trapped during the storm. My kids have been complaining of a persistent cough and I’m worried it might be from breathing in all this dust. Could this be causing their symptoms?
Posted by James Martinez
Asked on February 14, 2026 2:35 am
0
Dust storm residue can indeed cause discomfort and even respiratory issues. In the UAE, especially during the sand storms like the ones we've experienced recently, dust particles can carry a variety of irritants that might trigger coughs and other symptoms in sensitive individuals. The lingering smell and musty feeling near windowsills where sand got trapped is very common after such events.

In your case, it sounds like there's still a significant amount of fine particulates from the storm hiding in corners and on surfaces, particularly around those window sills. This can be tough to remove with regular cleaning methods alone. AC filters getting clogged up are also an important factor as they can recirculate these particles into your indoor air.

It’s not uncommon for children to experience respiratory issues like coughing when exposed to such conditions. The fine dust and sand particles, when breathed in, can irritate the throat and lungs leading to a persistent cough.

I would recommend taking immediate steps to clean thoroughly, especially focusing on areas near windows where dust tends to accumulate. Use microfiber cloths for gentle cleaning without spreading particles around. You might also want to consider using a HEPA air purifier to help filter out these smaller particles from the air in your home.

However, given that you’ve already noticed no improvement with regular cleaning and considering the health concerns of your children, it might be wise to seek professional assistance. A qualified environmental inspection can identify any hidden contaminants or sources of lingering smells. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice offer comprehensive mold inspections and remediation services which could also address other potential indoor air quality issues.

If you choose to proceed with a professional inspection, feel free to contact us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for expert help. The sooner the better in ensuring your family’s health is not compromised by lingering storm residue.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is key during such events. Ensuring proper ventilation and cleaning can go a long way but sometimes professional intervention may be necessary to fully address the issue.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 15, 2026 6:22 am