Pope Francis, 88, had two episodes of “acute respiratory failure” on Monday and has been in the hospital in Rome since February 14. Here are our current understandings about the health of the Argentine pope, who has led the Catholic Church and its over 1.4 billion adherents since 2013.
Initially diagnosed with bronchitis, Francis later developed pneumonia in both lungs, which led to his admission to the Gemelli hospital. The Vatican disclosed on February 22 that Francis had experienced a “prolonged asthmatic attack” that necessitated the use of a nasal cannula to administer “high-flow” oxygen.
Due to thrombocytopenia, a blood disorder that can hinder clotting and result in ongoing bleeding, Francis also needed blood transfusions. The Vatican’s situation gradually improved over the next few days, but on February 28, another significant problem still appeared.
The Holy See reported that the pope experienced “an episode of vomiting with inhalation” due to “an isolated crisis of bronchospasm,” which is a tightening of the muscles lining the lungs’ airways. He was reportedly “in good spirits” despite starting “non-invasive mechanical ventilation” a Vatican source claims he was receiving oxygen through a mask.
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