Pope Francis Had A Coughing Fit, Inhaled Vomit, And Needed Non-Invasive Ventilation

Pope Francis suffered a severe coughing fit on Friday, leading to him inhaling vomit and requiring non-invasive mechanical ventilation, the Vatican reported. The 88-year-old pontiff, battling double pneumonia for two weeks, remained conscious and cooperative during the episode, which doctors described as a "sudden worsening of the respiratory picture." Though he responded well to treatment and maintained good oxygen exchange, his prognosis remains guarded, with doctors needing 24 to 48 hours to assess the impact of the incident.

The episode marked a setback after two days of optimism regarding Francis' recovery at Rome's Gemelli hospital. The pope, who had part of one lung removed in his youth, has struggled with lung disease and was hospitalized after bronchitis developed into pneumonia. Experts expressed concern about the worsening of his condition, with Dr. John Coleman of Northwestern Medicine calling the situation "extremely concerning" due to Francis' age and fragile state. Dr. William Feldman of Brigham and Women's Hospital noted that the use of non-invasive ventilation, such as a BiPAP machine, is often a last measure before intubation.

The Vatican stated that the crisis resulted from a bronchial spasm triggered by coughing, contrasting it with the prolonged respiratory distress Francis suffered on February 22. However, doctors did not reinstate the term "critical condition" in their updates, suggesting cautious optimism despite his ongoing struggles.

Earlier on Friday, Francis spent the morning alternating between high-flow oxygen therapy and prayer. He had breakfast, read the news, and continued receiving respiratory physiotherapy. In a sign of his commitment to work, the Vatican released a document signed by Francis from his hospital room.

Meanwhile, prayers for the pope continued worldwide. Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández led a prayer vigil in St. Peter's Square, urging people to pray for others in need as well. In Mexico City, believers gathered at the cathedral, expressing deep concern for the pope's health. Many, like María Teresa Sánchez from Colombia, view Francis as a humble and relatable figure. "It's like having a relative with God," she said, reflecting the deep affection Catholics feel for him.