What is a potential consequence of prolonged bleeding in hemophilia patients?

Prolonged bleeding in individuals with hemophilia, a genetic disorder that impairs the body's ability to control blood clotting, can lead to significant joint damage. This occurs because repeated bleeding into joints—often referred to as hemarthrosis—can cause inflammation, pain, and erosion of the cartilage and bone over time. The accumulation of blood in the joint spaces contributes to the deterioration of surrounding tissues, resulting in chronic pain and limited mobility.

In contrast, weight gain, improved mobility, and enhanced muscle growth are less relevant to the condition and its complications. Weight gain may occur for various unrelated reasons, but it is not a direct consequence of prolonged bleeding. Improved mobility is typically not a result of any bleeding disorder; instead, patients often experience decreased mobility due to joint pain and damage. Similarly, enhanced muscle growth would not be expected in this context, as chronic pain and joint issues may lead to disuse of muscles surrounding affected joints. Therefore, joint damage is the most appropriate consequence associated with prolonged bleeding in hemophilia patients.