Here are 5 medical terms related to “hypo” with their meanings:
- Hypoglycemia: A condition characterized by abnormally low levels of blood sugar (glucose). It can cause symptoms such as shakiness, dizziness, and confusion.
- Hypotension: A condition where blood pressure is lower than normal. It can cause symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting.
- Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, which are essential for regulating metabolism, growth, and development.
- Hypoesthesia: A condition characterized by reduced sensitivity to touch, pressure, or other stimuli. It can be caused by nerve damage, neurological disorders, or other medical conditions.
- Hypoxia: A condition where the body or a specific organ does not receive enough oxygen. It can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, confusion, and chest pain.
These medical terms all start with the prefix “hypo-”, which means “under” or “below”. In medical terminology, this prefix is often used to describe conditions where there is a deficiency or a decrease in a particular physiological process or function.
Understanding Hypo Medical Terms

Medical terms that start with the prefix “hypo-” often indicate a condition where there is a decrease or deficiency in a particular physiological process or function. For example, hypoglycemia is a condition where blood sugar levels are lower than normal, while hypotension is a condition where blood pressure is lower than normal.
Causes and Symptoms of Hypo Medical Terms
The causes and symptoms of hypo medical terms can vary depending on the specific condition. For example, hypoglycemia can be caused by skipping meals, taking too much insulin, or having a medical condition such as diabetes. Symptoms of hypoglycemia can include shakiness, dizziness, and confusion.
| Medical Term | Definition | Causes and Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Hypoglycemia | Abnormally low blood sugar levels | Caused by skipping meals, taking too much insulin, or having diabetes. Symptoms include shakiness, dizziness, and confusion. |
| Hypotension | Abnormally low blood pressure | Caused by dehydration, bleeding, or certain medical conditions. Symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. |
| Hypothyroidism | Underactive thyroid gland | Caused by thyroid gland damage, iodine deficiency, or certain medical conditions. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, and dry skin. |
| Hypoesthesia | Reduced sensitivity to touch or other stimuli | Caused by nerve damage, neurological disorders, or certain medical conditions. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and decreased sensitivity to touch. |
| Hypoxia | Inadequate oxygen supply to the body or organs | Caused by high altitude, anemia, or certain medical conditions. Symptoms include shortness of breath, confusion, and chest pain. |

Key Points
- The prefix "hypo-" in medical terms indicates a decrease or deficiency in a particular physiological process or function.
- Hypoglycemia, hypotension, hypothyroidism, hypoesthesia, and hypoxia are all medical conditions that start with the prefix "hypo-".
- Each condition has distinct causes and symptoms, and understanding these is crucial for accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
- Recognizing the prefix "hypo-" and its meaning can help healthcare professionals better comprehend the underlying conditions and develop targeted treatment plans.
- Awareness of hypo medical terms can also help individuals take preventive measures and seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms.
What does the prefix “hypo-” mean in medical terms?
+The prefix “hypo-” means “under” or “below” and is often used to describe conditions where there is a deficiency or a decrease in a particular physiological process or function.
What are some common hypo medical terms?
+Some common hypo medical terms include hypoglycemia, hypotension, hypothyroidism, hypoesthesia, and hypoxia.
What are the causes and symptoms of hypoglycemia?
+Hypoglycemia can be caused by skipping meals, taking too much insulin, or having a medical condition such as diabetes. Symptoms include shakiness, dizziness, and confusion.