Which combination of symptoms indicates true heat and false cold?

The correct combination of symptoms indicating true heat and false cold is characterized by cold limbs and a desire for cold drinks. In traditional Chinese medicine, true heat refers to an internal condition of excess heat within the body, while false cold suggests that the body is experiencing symptoms of coldness externally despite the presence of internal heat.

In this scenario, the symptom of cold limbs indicates an inadequate supply of warmth or circulation, often seen in patients who may exhibit signs of internal heat but feel cold to the touch. The desire for cold drinks further emphasizes the body's response to perceived heat through a craving for cooling substances, even though the overall presentation suggests an underlying cold condition due to the cold limbs.

This combination reflects a paradox where the 'true' heat (internally) creates the experience of 'false' cold (externally), making it a classic presentation in the diagnostic framework of traditional Chinese medicine. Understanding the characteristics and interplay of these symptoms is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment strategies.