Could high humidity cause my son's cold?« Back to Previous Page

Humidity levels can indeed have an impact on respiratory health. In the UAE, especially during cooler nights like you've mentioned, it's quite common to experience higher indoor humidity which can contribute to discomfort and potential health issues for your family.

High humidity levels in your home, particularly if they stay above 70%, might be causing or exacerbating your son's symptoms. The moisture in the air provides an environment that encourages the growth of mold and dust mites - both common allergens known to trigger cold-like symptoms such as coughs and runny noses.

To address this issue effectively, you should first consider having a professional inspection done to assess the humidity levels throughout your home, especially focusing on the kids' bedroom. This will help identify if there's an underlying moisture source that needs addressing, like a leaky pipe or insufficient ventilation.

Once the root cause is identified, several steps can be taken:

1. Increase Ventilation: Open windows during cooler days to allow fresh air in and expel excess moisture. In Dubai, this might mean more frequent use of cross-ventilation due to the climate.

2. Use a Dehumidifier Effectively: Your current dehumidifier seems like it's not sufficient for your needs. Try using one with a higher capacity or consider placing it closer to the source of moisture if possible. Ensure you empty and clean the unit regularly as per manufacturer instructions.

3. Consider Air Conditioning: Running the air conditioner on a low humidity setting can help reduce indoor moisture, especially during summer months when AC units often come equipped with dehumidifying features.

4. Control Moisture Sources: Check for any leaks or areas of excessive dampness in your villa and address them promptly. Regularly clean bathrooms and kitchens to prevent condensation from accumulating.

5. Monitor and Adjust Humidity Levels: Use a hygrometer to regularly check humidity levels. Aim for 30-60% as recommended by health experts and local building codes, which can be adapted for the UAE context.

If after these steps you still find that the issues persist or if your son's symptoms worsen, it might be wise to contact professionals like those at MolDS (800-MOLDS or 800-66537) who can offer more targeted solutions and ensure compliance with local regulations on indoor environmental quality in Dubai.

Keep an eye out for signs of mold growth as well. If you notice any discoloration or musty odors, address it immediately to avoid potential health risks.