Influence of Chronic Heat Exposure on Nerve Conduction Velocity in Desert Populations

Abstract

Background: Chronic exposure to high environmental temperatures is a common condition for individuals living in desert regions. Prolonged heat stress may influence several physiological systems, including the peripheral nervous system. Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) is an important electrophysiological parameter used to evaluate the functional integrity of peripheral nerves. Environmental factors such as temperature, hydration status, and occupational heat exposure may influence nerve conduction properties.

Aim: To evaluate the influence of chronic heat exposure on nerve conduction velocity in individuals residing in desert populations.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the Department of Physiology at Jaipur National University, Rajasthan. A total of 120 participants aged between 18–60 years with long-term exposure to desert climatic conditions were included in the study. Motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities were assessed using a standard electromyography (EMG) system under controlled laboratory conditions. Nerves commonly tested included the median, ulnar, tibial, peroneal, and sural nerves. Demographic data, duration of heat exposure, and daily exposure hours were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate software, and a p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: The study demonstrated a gradual reduction in nerve conduction velocity with increasing duration and daily hours of heat exposure. Participants with more than 20 years of heat exposure showed lower mean NCV compared with those with shorter exposure duration (p=0.03). Motor NCV of the median, tibial, and peroneal nerves showed statistically significant reductions, while sensory NCV changes were observed in the median and sural nerves. Age-related decline in NCV was also noted (p=0.01).

Conclusion: Chronic environmental heat exposure may produce mild alterations in peripheral nerve conduction parameters, suggesting possible adaptive or subclinical neurophysiological changes among desert populations.