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The Vatican reported this Friday afternoon that Pope Francis has experienced a "sudden worsening" of his respiratory condition, for which he has been hospitalized for two weeks.
According to the official statement from the Holy See, the Holy Father experienced an isolated bronchospasm crisis, which led to an episode of vomiting with aspiration and a rapid decline in his respiratory condition.
Bronchospasm, an abnormal contraction of the muscles lining the bronchi, caused a narrowing of the airways, which led the pontiff to vomit, with some of the gastric contents entering his lungs.
In light of the situation, the Pope was immediately subjected to a bronchoscopy procedure and was given non-invasive mechanical ventilation, treatment to which he has responded positively, showing a "good response to gas exchange," as specified by the Holy See.
Despite the crisis, Francisco has remained "well-oriented" and has actively collaborated in the therapeutic maneuvers.
Nevertheless, the Vatican maintains a reserved outlook on its development.
Pope Francis, 88 years old, remains hospitalized at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome after being admitted on February 14 due to bronchitis that developed into bilateral pneumonia.
Before the worsening on Friday, it had shown a slight improvement.
Medical history of the Pontiff
Francisco has faced several health issues in recent years.
In June 2023, he underwent surgery to remove intestinal scar tissue and repair a hernia in the abdominal wall.
Previously, in March of the same year, he spent three days in the same hospital receiving intravenous antibiotics for another respiratory infection.
Since his youth, when part of a lung was removed, the Pope has experienced recurring respiratory issues.
Last year, during Holy Week, he was affected by a prolonged bronchitis.
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