This Friday afternoon, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis has encountered a "sudden worsening" of his respiratory condition, which has kept him hospitalized for the past two weeks. According to an official statement from the Holy See, the Pope experienced an isolated bronchospasm attack, leading to vomiting and inhalation, resulting in a rapid decline in his respiratory health. This bronchospasm, an unusual contraction of the muscles surrounding the bronchi, caused a narrowing of the airways, causing the pontiff to vomit, with a portion of the stomach contents entering his lungs.
In response to the situation, the Pope underwent an immediate bronchoaspiration procedure and was provided with non-invasive mechanical ventilation. He has responded well to this treatment, showing a "good response to gas exchange," as detailed by the Holy See. Despite the crisis, Pope Francis has remained "well-oriented" and has actively participated in therapeutic maneuvers. However, the Vatican maintains a reserved prognosis regarding his recovery.
At 88 years old, Pope Francis continues to be hospitalized at Rome's Gemelli clinic after being admitted on February 14 due to bronchitis that developed into bilateral pneumonia. Before this Friday's downturn, he had shown slight improvement.
Medical History of the Pontiff
Pope Francis has dealt with several health challenges over recent years. In June 2023, he underwent surgery to remove intestinal scar tissue and repair a hernia in the abdominal wall. Earlier, in March of the same year, he spent three days in the same hospital receiving intravenous antibiotics for another respiratory infection. Since his youth, when part of a lung was removed, the Pope has experienced recurring respiratory issues. Last year, during Holy Week, he was affected by a prolonged bout of bronchitis.
Pope Francis's Health Challenges: Key Questions
What caused Pope Francis's sudden health decline?
Pope Francis experienced a bronchospasm, which caused vomiting and inhalation issues, leading to a rapid deterioration in his respiratory health.
How is Pope Francis currently being treated?
He underwent a bronchoaspiration procedure and is receiving non-invasive mechanical ventilation, to which he has shown a positive response.
What past health issues has Pope Francis faced?
Pope Francis has had various health problems, including intestinal surgery in 2023, a previous respiratory infection requiring antibiotics, and a long history of respiratory issues since part of his lung was removed in his youth.