What does the prefix 'hyper' indicate in terms of body functions?

The prefix 'hyper' indicates an excessive or above normal condition in terms of body functions. It is derived from Greek, where 'hyper' translates to 'over' or 'above.' This prefix is commonly used in medical terminology to describe situations where a particular physiological function or measurement exceeds the normal range. For example, hypertension refers to high blood pressure, and hyperglycemia indicates elevated blood sugar levels. By using 'hyper,' healthcare professionals can easily convey that something is occurring at an increased rate or level compared to what is typically expected.