Pope's respiratory condition worsens: Vatican
Pope Francis stayed alert and aware all times, cooperating with therapeutic treatment, says Holy See press office
ISTANBUL
Pope Francis’ respiratory condition worsened following an isolated bronchospasm, the Vatican said on Friday.
The Pope "after a morning spent alternating between respiratory physiotherapy and prayer in the chapel, experienced an isolated episode of bronchospasm," the Holy See press office said in a statement.
"This caused an episode of vomiting, which led to him inhaling some and a sudden worsening of his respiratory condition."
It added that the pontiff was promptly subjected to bronchial aspiration (to clear his airways) and was put on non-invasive mechanical ventilation, which improved his oxygen levels.
He has stayed alert and aware throughout, cooperating with the therapeutic treatment, it added.
The 88-year-old has been at Rome's Gemelli Hospital since Feb. 14 and is being treated for double pneumonia.
He was elected as Pope Benedict XVI's successor at the age of 76 on March 13, 2013.
Anadolu Agency website contains only a portion of the news stories offered to subscribers in the AA News Broadcasting System (HAS), and in summarized form. Please contact us for subscription options.
