Pope Francis Suffers Severe Breathing Crisis During Hospitalization

The 88-year-old pontiff, battling a double pneumonia, experienced a bronchial spasm requiring non-invasive mechanical ventilation, with his prognosis remaining cautious.

Pope Francis, hospitalized for two weeks with a bilateral pneumonia, suffered a sudden bronchial spasm on Friday afternoon, causing significant breathing difficulties.
The episode led to multiple instances of vomiting, with some material inhaled, prompting immediate non-invasive mechanical ventilation via an oxygen mask.
The Vatican confirmed that the Pope was alert and responsive throughout the crisis, though his overall prognosis remains cautious due to his advanced age and medical complexity.
Doctors indicate it will take 24 to 48 hours to assess if the crisis has worsened his overall condition; no discharge timeline has been provided.
The Pope’s condition had shown slight improvement earlier in the week, including better kidney function, but his advanced age continues to heighten the risks associated with his illness.