Vatican City: Pope Francis experienced an episode of bronchospasm, which led to vomiting and a deterioration of his respiratory condition, Vatican News reported.
On the afternoon of February 28, the Holy Father suffered from bronchospasm, which resulted in vomiting and subsequent inhalation of some of the expelled matter, causing a sudden worsening of his respiratory state.
According to the Vatican, immediate medical intervention was carried out, including bronchial aspiration to clear his airways and non-invasive mechanical ventilation to improve his oxygen levels.
Health Update from the Vatican
On Wednesday evening, the Holy See Press Office issued an update on Pope Francis’ health, stating that he had shown slight improvement over the past 24 hours.
“The Holy Father’s condition has shown a slight further improvement over the past 24 hours. The mild kidney insufficiency observed in recent days has subsided. A chest CT scan carried out last night showed a normal progression of the lung inflammation. Blood tests conducted today confirmed the improvement seen yesterday.”
The statement added that Pope Francis remains on high-flow oxygen therapy but has not experienced any asthma-like respiratory episodes in the past day. He continues to undergo respiratory physiotherapy and, despite the challenges, resumed his work in the afternoon after receiving the Eucharist in the morning.
Concerns Grow Over Pope’s Health
People in Rome and the Vatican remain anxious as they await updates on the pope’s health, with his condition described as “complex” and his prognosis as “reserved.”
Despite signs of slight improvement, concerns persist, as CNN reported that, until Tuesday, the pope’s condition was still considered “critical.”
This marks Pope Francis’ fourth and longest hospital stay since assuming the papacy in 2013. The Vatican remains on high alert, awaiting further updates on the ailing pontiff’s health.
As uncertainty looms, a phrase frequently used in Rome these days captures the emotions of many—“montagne russe”—meaning a rollercoaster, a reflection of the fluctuating updates on the pope’s condition.