Investigation of the Prevalence of Cold Sensitivity among Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Staff

Abstract

Cold sensitivity is a condition that occurs as an abnormal reaction to exposure to cold that causes discomfort or avoidance of exposure to cold. Cold sensitivity can be accompanied by pain, numbness, stiffness, weakness, swelling, and discoloration of the affected area, usually the hands. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of cold allergy in staff of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the staffs of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences were examined. Demographic characteristics of patients were examined. The severity of the cold sensation was assessed based on a score of 1 to 10. Results: In this study, 393 employees were studied, of which physicians (32.1%) and nurses (25.2%) were the most studied group. 144 were male and 249 were female. Also, 16.79% of the subjects had cold-related jobs. Among these participants, the average score of cold sensitivity was 5.40±2.53. Also, 31.6% of the subjects expressed hypersensitivity to cold. These individuals had a severe hypersensitivity score of 5.58±2.77. Also, most participants did not report pain in the face of the cold.