Some research suggests that the outcome of the cold pressor test can help to predict hypertension in patients; however other studies have failed to confirm this.
[5][6][7] This is done by requiring a participant to place their hand in the cold pressor for as long as they can.
The hot water immersion test (HIT) is equally capable of triggering a pain response without the confounding of baroreflex activation.
[8] Sensory afferent nerves trigger a systemic sympathetic activation leading to marked vasoconstriction.
The result is an elevated pulse pressure (normal is 40mm Hg), due to catecholamine release.