What does the suffix "-pnea" indicate in medical terminology?

The suffix "-pnea" specifically refers to breathing or respiration in medical terminology. It originates from the Greek word "pnoia," which means "breath." When used in medical terms, it describes various aspects of breathing. For instance, terms such as "dyspnea" refer to difficulty in breathing, while "apnea" denotes a temporary cessation of breathing. Understanding this suffix helps healthcare professionals to accurately identify and communicate about respiratory conditions, making it vital in medical assessment and diagnosis.