Pope Francis Was Put on a Breathing Machine Following an Unexpected Respiratory Crisis

The Vatican announced that Pope Francis remains awake and focused throughout his unexpected respiratory episode, which necessitates the use of a breathing machine.

According to the most recent Vatican statement, Pope Francis experienced an unexpected episode of respiratory distress on Friday, which led medical personnel to put him on a breathing machine.

His vomiting, some of which he aspirated, made the experience even more difficult, necessitating prolonged care before he was put on mechanical ventilation. CNN was informed by a Vatican source that the pope is wearing a breathing mask but is not intubated.

Pope Francis “remained alert and oriented at all times,” the Vatican promised, despite the health crisis. He is still deemed to be in danger, according to a spokeswoman, and doctors should have a better understanding of his condition within the next 24 to 48 hours.

The pope’s continuing struggles with lung-related diseases are exacerbated by this most recent event. Two weeks ago, Francis, 87, was sent to Gemelli Hospital in Rome after suffering from bronchitis that progressed to pneumonia. This is his fourth and longest hospital stay since taking office as pope in 2013.

Due to severe pneumonia in his early years, which resulted in the partial removal of one lung, Francis has suffered from pulmonary difficulties for a significant portion of his life. As of Thursday, officials stated his health was “improving,” but his prognosis was still unknown. The Vatican has been issuing twice-daily updates on his condition.

Pope Francis’ schedule has been adjusted to allow for his critical medical treatment as part of his recuperation. The Vatican declared on Friday that he will not be presiding over the Ash Wednesday liturgy, which ushers in Lent, next week. Only twice in his twelve years as pope has Francis failed to attend the solemn event. In his absence, a cardinal will lead the service.

Prayers have been coming in from all across the world amid worries over his health. While praying for the pope on Friday night, Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández of Argentina reminded the faithful that Francis’ concerns go beyond his own health issues. “It is undoubtedly very important to the Holy Father that we offer up prayers not only for him but also for everyone who is suffering greatly from poverty, illness, and war at this very dramatic and painful time in history.”

Concerns about the pope’s deteriorating health and his capacity to continue leading the Church in the face of these ongoing medical issues are still present as the Vatican and the Catholic community await more information.