Here is a bulletin from Burroughs (Burroughs Bulletin N101 Multiplexed
Operation of Nixie Tubes.pdf). It might help answer your concerns. Many
data sheets for Burroughs NIXIE tubes states that "Due to life
considerations, only Long Life NIXIE tubes are recommended for pulsed
operation".
There are NIXIE tubes that are designated as LONG LIFE tubes, designed
for multiplexed use. Some types to look for: 7977 (B4032) Long Life,
8037 (B5031) Long Life, B5092 Long Life Wide Angle, B6091 Long Life Wide
Angle, B8091 Long Life Wide Angle, B7094 Long Life Wide Angle, etc.
There are probably many more from Burroughs and other manufacturers; I
happened to have some data sheets and bulletins from Burroughs.

--
Dave M
A woman has the last word in any argument. Anything a man says after
that is the beginning of a new argument.