The Vatican has provided an update on the health status of the 88-year-old pope, who is currently receiving treatment in the hospital for pneumonia.
Pope Francis is presently hospitalized due to pneumonia, having spent two weeks at Gemelli hospital in Rome.
On Friday, the Vatican revealed that the 88-year-old encountered a breathing 'crisis' that led to vomiting.
Medical personnel provided air support, and the Pope showed a positive response.
The Vatican's announcement stated that the Pope faced an 'isolated crisis of bronchospasm,' which resulted in 'an episode of vomiting with inhalation and a sudden deterioration of the respiratory condition.' After this event, he underwent bronchoaspiration and started non-invasive mechanical ventilation, which improved his gas exchange.
Despite these difficulties, the Pope remained alert and oriented, actively participating in his medical care.
He was initially admitted to the hospital on February 14 due to respiratory issues, which were later diagnosed as pneumonia in both lungs.
This hospitalization has raised concerns about his health, especially as routine updates indicated that his condition was 'not critical' after some slight improvements.
Nonetheless, the Vatican reiterated that the Pope's prognosis remains 'reserved,' creating uncertainty about potential changes in his health.
Experts point out that
Pope Francis's advanced age and ongoing respiratory problems may extend the recovery period.
Significantly, this hospitalization represents his longest since being elected Pope in 2013.