Pope Francis Faces Respiratory Crisis, Shows Positive Response to Treatment
Pope Francis experienced a significant health scare on Friday when he suffered an isolated bronchospasm crisis, leading to a sudden worsening of his respiratory condition while in Rome. Fortunately, the Holy See indicated that the Pope's response to treatment has been encouraging.
According to the official Vatican bulletin, the Holy Father underwent a morning filled with respiratory therapy and prayer in the chapel, shortly before the health crisis arose. The bronchospasm crisis caused an episode of vomiting due to inhalation and resulted in an unexpected decline in his respiratory health. Vatican sources revealed that physicians would take between 24 and 48 hours to assess the full impact of the bronchospasm crisis, which involves a sudden narrowing of the airways.
At 88 years old, Pope Francis has faced health challenges over the past year, notably being hospitalized on February 14 due to bronchitis complicated by a polymicrobial infection that led to bilateral pneumonia. Despite these health setbacks, reports from yesterday indicated that he had emerged from the critical phase of his illness.
During the recent health crisis, doctors performed a rapid aspiration of the bronchi and commenced noninvasive mechanical ventilation. They have observed a positive response in gas exchanges, suggesting that the Pope's lungs are effectively functioning to absorb oxygen and eliminate carbon dioxide.
Despite the challenges he faces, Pope Francis has remained mentally sharp and aware, cooperating fully with the medical team during therapeutic procedures. However, the prognosis remains uncertain, and the world watches closely as he navigates this latest health obstacle.
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