By Pope Francis Faces Setback in Pneumonia Battle: Coughing Fit Leads to Respiratory Crisis
Pope Francis, 88, suffered a troubling setback on Friday as an isolated coughing fit led to him inhaling vomit, requiring non-invasive mechanical ventilation. The Vatican announced the alarming development, which comes as the pontiff continues his battle against double pneumonia.
Despite the concerning incident, the pope remained conscious, alert, and cooperative with medical staff. Doctors reported that he responded well to treatment, with an appropriate level of oxygen exchange, and that he continued to wear a mask for supplemental oxygen. The Vatican described the event as a “sudden worsening” of his respiratory condition, though the pope’s overall prognosis remains closely monitored. Medical experts indicated that the next 24 to 48 hours are crucial to assess any lasting impact on his health.
This episode marks a sharp contrast to the positive reports in the days prior, where doctors had noted progress in his recovery after being admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14 for complications from bronchitis, which developed into pneumonia in both lungs. Francis, who had part of one lung removed in his youth, has been dealing with lung disease, which makes him especially vulnerable.
Medical Experts Express Concern Over Pope’s Health
The incident raised significant concerns among medical professionals. Dr. John Coleman, a pulmonary critical care doctor at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago, emphasized that the pope’s condition remains precarious, especially given his age, previous lung surgery, and the complexity of his pneumonia.
“This is extremely concerning, given the fact that the pope has been in the hospital now for over two weeks, and now he’s continuing to have these respiratory events and now had this aspiration event that is requiring even higher levels of support,” Coleman told The Associated Press.
Dr. William Feldman, a pulmonary specialist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, expressed similar concerns, calling it “a worrying turn” for the pope’s health. He explained that non-invasive ventilation, such as the BiPAP machine used in this case, is a technique aimed at avoiding the need for invasive mechanical ventilation, which is a more extreme intervention.
The Pope’s Condition and Recovery Efforts
The episode began in the early afternoon when Pope Francis experienced a coughing fit that led to inhaling vomit, which doctors described as an “isolated crisis of bronchial spasm.” This followed a longer respiratory crisis a week earlier, on February 22, in which Francis struggled to breathe.
Although the Vatican has refrained from referring to Francis as being in “critical condition” for the past few days, doctors have remained cautious, indicating that he is still not out of danger due to the complexity of his medical condition.
Earlier on Friday, the pope had alternated between using supplemental oxygen and praying in the chapel, as well as engaging in some light activities, including reading the daily newspapers and having breakfast. The Vatican also noted that he was receiving respiratory physiotherapy to aid his recovery.
Non-Invasive Ventilation: A Crucial Medical Intervention
The episode on Friday led to a shift in treatment for Pope Francis, requiring non-invasive ventilation, a technique used to assist patients in breathing without the need for a full intubation. Types of non-invasive ventilation, such as the BiPAP machine, provide air pressure to help the lungs inflate and improve oxygen levels. Doctors typically use this method as an attempt to avoid more invasive procedures, such as intubation, which would require mechanical ventilation.
The Vatican emphasized that Francis’ condition had not reached the stage of critical care, despite the worrying signs. His doctors are continuing to monitor his condition closely, seeking signs of improvement through non-invasive methods.
Global Outpouring of Prayers for the Pope
The pope’s health has prompted an outpouring of prayers from around the world. On Friday evening, Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández, one of the pope’s closest friends, led a prayer gathering in St. Peter’s Square, urging the crowd to pray not only for the pope’s recovery but for others suffering across the world, particularly those affected by war, illness, and poverty.
In Mexico City, dozens gathered at the cathedral to pray for the pope, with many expressing deep concern for a figure they consider part of their family. “He is like part of the family,” said Araceli Gutiérrez, who recalled meeting the pope during his 2016 visit to the country. María Teresa Sánchez, visiting from Colombia, shared similar sentiments, emphasizing the personal connection she felt with the pope, the first Latin American to hold the papacy.
The pope’s medical team, along with millions of Catholics around the world, continue to monitor his condition, hoping for a swift recovery. As the Vatican remains on high alert, the pope’s health remains the subject of global attention, with prayers for his healing flooding in from every corner of the globe.
Vatican’s Continued Vigilance on Pope’s Health
The Vatican remains vigilant and dedicated to monitoring the pope’s health, providing regular updates on his condition. Though he has faced some setbacks, the pontiff’s strong will and the close cooperation between the medical team and Vatican officials continue to offer hope for a steady recovery. As Pope Francis remains under care, the eyes of the world remain focused on his progress, awaiting further updates on his condition.
