Could dampness and mold cause my kids' coughing?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a persistent dampness in the basement of our apartment. The area where the carpets meet the concrete walls is particularly bad, and there’s an occasional musty smell that makes me worried about mold. My kids have been complaining of coughing and sneezing since we moved into this unit two years ago. Could these symptoms be related to poor ventilation or mold exposure?
Posted by Min Inoue
Asked on December 7, 2025 9:53 am
0
Absolutely, dampness and mold can cause coughing. In fact, they're one of the most common triggers for respiratory issues, especially among children. In the UAE like Dubai, humidity levels can be quite high due to our climate, making it a perfect environment for molds to thrive.

The symptoms your kids are experiencing - such as coughing and sneezing - could indeed be linked to mold exposure in your apartment's basement. Mold spores can float through the air and when inhaled, they irritate the respiratory system, causing coughs, sore throats, and other allergy-like reactions. The dampness you noticed where carpets meet concrete walls is a red flag for potential mold growth.

In Dubai, it's important to keep your indoor environment clean and dry as per the Ministry of Public Works (MPW) regulations. These guidelines stress the importance of proper ventilation and regular cleaning to prevent moisture buildup which can lead to mold issues.

Given that you've noticed persistent dampness and a musty smell, I'd highly recommend getting an inspection done by professionals. You might want to contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email them at hello@saniservice.com for a thorough assessment. They will be able to identify if there's active mold growth and provide appropriate remediation solutions.

To manage the situation in the meantime, here are some practical steps you can take:

1. Increase ventilation: Open windows when possible, use dehumidifiers or air conditioners to reduce humidity.
2. Clean regularly: Use a mixture of water and vinegar to clean surfaces where mold might grow like bathrooms and basements.
3. Fix leaks: Address any plumbing issues right away to prevent moisture accumulation.

Remember, prevention is key in dealing with dampness and mold. By taking these steps you can help ensure your home remains healthy for your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 10, 2025 4:40 am