What does the suffix "-pnea" refer to in medical terminology?

The suffix "-pnea" specifically refers to breathing in medical terminology. It denotes various aspects of respiratory function and can be combined with prefixes to describe different conditions related to breathing. For example, the term "apnea" refers to a temporary cessation of breathing, while "tachypnea" describes an abnormally rapid breathing rate. This suffix is derived from the Greek word "pnoia," which means breath or respiration, thus firmly establishing its connection to the respiratory system. Understanding this suffix is essential for interpreting a wide range of medical terms related to respiratory health.