What does the suffix -rrhagia specifically denote?

The suffix -rrhagia specifically denotes excessive bleeding or hemorrhage. In medical terminology, it is used to indicate a condition characterized by abnormally increased blood loss, particularly from a specific site in the body. For instance, the term menorrhagia refers to heavy menstrual bleeding. This suffix is derived from the Greek word "rhage," meaning "to break or burst," which aligns with the notion of a significant flow or excessive release of blood. In contrast, other suffixes such as -orrhea imply a flow or discharge but do not necessarily indicate the severity associated with -rrhagia. Understanding this distinction is vital for accurately interpreting medical conditions related to bleeding.