Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized with pneumonia, suffered a breathing crisis on Friday that caused him to vomit, but he responded well after receiving air, the Vatican reported. The incident occurred just hours after a Vatican source indicated that the 88-year-old pontiff’s condition was no longer considered critical, following gradual improvements.
While being treated at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, Francis experienced a bronchospasm episode that led to sudden respiratory distress. He was promptly given broncho-aspiration and non-invasive mechanical ventilation, which helped stabilize his condition. Despite the episode, he remained alert and cooperative throughout, according to the Vatican.
Doctors are closely monitoring the situation over the next 24 to 48 hours to assess whether the breathing trouble has worsened his overall health. Although not out of danger, the pontiff is reportedly in good spirits and using an oxygen mask covering his nose and mouth. A Vatican source noted that he has shown resilience compared to what might have been expected given his condition.
Pope Francis was first hospitalized on February 14 after experiencing breathing difficulties, which later developed into pneumonia in both lungs. Concerns grew after he suffered a respiratory attack over the weekend, but since then, his condition had appeared to improve. Despite this, the Vatican has maintained a “reserved” prognosis, meaning no predictions are being made about his recovery.
At 88, Francis’s age and preexisting chronic respiratory issues make a full recovery uncertain. He had part of one lung removed in his youth and has struggled with increasing health challenges in recent years. In addition to being prone to bronchitis, he also suffers from hip and knee pain, which has forced him to rely on a wheelchair.
Despite his hospitalization, the pope has continued working from his hospital suite on the 10th floor of Gemelli. He has been alternating between rest, breathing exercises, and prayer. This marks the longest hospital stay of his nearly 12-year papacy, following previous surgeries for a hernia, colon issues, and bronchitis treatment.
Speculation has arisen about whether Francis might consider stepping down, particularly with his schedule packed due to preparations for the upcoming Jubilee year. Vatican expert Marco Politi suggested that if the pope recovers, he may aim to complete the Jubilee celebrations but could revisit the question of resignation once he turns 89.
Francis has previously expressed openness to resigning, following the precedent set by his predecessor, Benedict XVI, who stepped down in 2013 due to health concerns. However, before his hospitalization, Francis had repeatedly stated that he did not see resignation as an immediate option—and perhaps never would.
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