What is the primary meaning of the prefix "hyer-" in medical terms?

The prefix "hyper-" in medical terminology signifies something that is excessive or abnormally high. This prefix is derived from Greek, where it means "over" or "above." It is commonly used to describe conditions or states where there is an increase beyond normal levels, such as in terms like "hypertension," which refers to high blood pressure, or "hyperglycemia," indicating an abnormally high level of glucose in the blood. This usage helps to clearly convey the idea of excessiveness in a medical context, making it vital for understanding various health conditions.