The terms “hypo” and “hyper” are commonly used as prefixes to describe conditions that are below or above normal ranges, respectively. The prefix “hypo” is used to indicate a deficiency or a lower than normal level, while the prefix “hyper” is used to indicate an excess or a higher than normal level.
“Hypo” examples
- Hypoxia: A condition where there is a deficiency of oxygen in the body tissues. Symptoms of hypoxia can include shortness of breath, confusion, and blue-coloured skin.
- Hypoglycaemia: This term is used to describe a condition where the blood sugar level is lower than the normal range (typically less than 70 mg/dL). Symptoms of hypoglycaemia can include sweating, tremors, confusion and fainting.
- Hypotension: This term is used to describe low blood pressure, which is when the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is lower than normal. Symptoms of hypotension can include dizziness, lightheadedness and fainting.
- Hypothermia: A condition where the body temperature is abnormally low. This can be caused by exposure to cold temperatures, immersion in cold water or certain medical conditions. Symptoms of hypothermia can include shivering, confusion and loss of consciousness.
- Hypothyroidism: This term is used to describe a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Symptoms of hypothyroidism can include fatigue, weight gain and depression.
- Hypocalcaemia: A condition where there is an abnormally low level of calcium in the blood. Symptoms of hypocalcaemia can include muscle cramps, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet.
- Hypoparathyroidism: A condition where the parathyroid glands do not produce enough parathyroid hormone, which is important for regulating calcium levels in the body. Symptoms of hypoparathyroidism can include muscle cramps, tingling and seizures.
- Hypopnea: A condition where a person has shallow breathing or abnormally low respiratory rates during sleep. This can be a sign of sleep apnoea, a condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep.
“Hyper” examples
- Hypertension: This term is used to describe high blood pressure, which is when the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is higher than normal. Symptoms of hypertension may not be noticeable, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease and stroke.
- Hyperglycaemia: This term is used to describe a condition where the blood sugar level is higher than the normal range (typically greater than 130 mg/dL). Symptoms of hyperglycaemia can include increased thirst, frequent urination and blurred vision.
- Hyperthyroidism: This term is used to describe a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism can include weight loss, rapid heart rate and anxiety.
- Hyperkalaemia: A condition where there is an abnormally high level of potassium in the blood. Symptoms of hyperkalaemia can include muscle weakness, nausea and irregular heartbeat.
- Hypertonicity: A condition where the muscles are abnormally stiff and tense. This can occur in conditions such as cerebral palsy or after a stroke.
- Hyperthermia: A condition where the body temperature is abnormally high. This can be caused by exposure to high temperatures or as a side effect of certain medications.
- Hypercapnia: A condition where there is an abnormally high level of carbon dioxide in the blood. This can occur in conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or sleep apnoea.
- Hyperemesis gravidarum: A severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that can lead to dehydration and weight loss.