Cardiovascular responses in man to a stream of cold air

Cardiovascular responses to a stream of cold air (0-10degrees C) directed towards the face and abdomen separately were examined in 12 human subjects. Cold air directed at the side of the face produced a 36+/-6 degrees increase in forearm vascular resistance and 22"/-4 degrees reduction in blood flow. Cold air on the abdomen did not produce a significant change in vascular resistance. The results are discussed in relation to angina pectoris evoked by cold wind.