Angina pectoris and cold

Ten patients with angina pectoris and a history of cold intolerance performed symptom limited work tests at +18 degrees C and at -17 degrees C. At -17 degrees C the work capacity was found to be 20% lower than at +18 degrees C. In nine of the patients the work load necessary to elicit anginal pain was lower in the cold. Nitroglycerine given before cycling increased the work capacity in the cold to levels obtained in room temperature, mainly due to a decrease in the systolic blood pressure.