What does the prefix "hyper-" indicate?

The prefix "hyper-" signifies an increased or excessive level of something. In medical terminology, it is often used to describe conditions that are above normal. For instance, "hypertension" refers to high blood pressure, indicating that the blood pressure is elevated beyond what is considered healthy. This prefix is crucial for understanding various medical conditions and their severity, as it provides immediate context about the status of a patient’s health. Understanding this prefix allows healthcare professionals to communicate more effectively about conditions that require urgent attention or intervention.