In medical terms, what does the ending '-algia' typically refer to?

The suffix '-algia' in medical terminology specifically denotes pain. It is derived from the Greek word 'algos,' which means pain. This suffix is commonly used in various medical conditions to indicate that pain is one of the symptoms, such as in terms like 'neuralgia' (nerve pain) or 'fibromyalgia' (muscle pain). Understanding this suffix is essential for interpreting numerous medical terms and conditions, as it clearly signals the presence of pain as a defining characteristic of the medical issue being described.