Is poor indoor air quality causing our symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we had a few weeks ago, I’ve noticed a persistent odor in the living room that only gets worse when someone is vacuuming. My kids have been coughing more frequently lately, especially after being inside all day due to the heat. The air feels stuffy and not as fresh as it should be, even with the windows open for short periods. Could this be causing their symptoms or are we just overthinking it?
Posted by Fang Ma
Asked on December 4, 2025 12:05 pm
0
Indoor air quality can indeed affect your family's well-being. The symptoms you've described - persistent odor, stuffiness, coughing, and increased frequency of respiratory issues especially after being indoors for long periods - are all red flags that point to possible poor indoor air quality (IAQ). In dubai/UAE, such concerns aren't uncommon due to factors like dust storms, high humidity levels during summer, and the use of air conditioning systems.

Dust particles from recent storms can linger in your home's air, causing irritation. This could be exacerbating respiratory issues in your kids. Additionally, indoor pollutants like mold, bacteria, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaning products or building materials might also play a role. In the UAE, regulations regarding IAQ are not as stringent as those in some other countries, but maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial for health.

To better understand if your symptoms are linked to IAQ issues, consider having a professional inspection conducted by a company like Saniservice. They can help identify sources of contamination and provide remediation solutions tailored to the UAE environment. You could contact them at 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 for an initial assessment.

In the meantime, there are steps you can take to improve indoor air quality:
1. Increase ventilation: Open windows when weather permits and use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
2. Use HEPA filters: Install them in your HVAC system if not already present; they can filter out dust, pollen, mold spores, and other particles.
3. Clean regularly: Dust and vacuum frequently to reduce allergens and pollutants.
4. Monitor humidity: Aim for a relative humidity between 30-50% using dehumidifiers or air conditioners.
5. Avoid strong chemicals: Use natural cleaning products when possible.

Remember, maintaining good IAQ is key to protecting your family's health in the UAE’s unique climate conditions. If symptoms persist despite these measures, don't hesitate to seek further professional advice.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 8, 2025 8:17 am