The medical prefix that conveys the meanings of bad, painful, or difficult is ‘dys-‘.
This prefix is derived from the Greek word ‘dys’, which implies an abnormal, faulty, or difficult condition. It is commonly used in various medical terms to denote disorders or challenges related to health. For instance, conditions such as ‘dysfunction’, ‘dyspnea’ (difficulty in breathing), and ‘dyslexia’ (difficulty with reading) incorporate this prefix to highlight the problematic nature of the condition.