Pope Francis has been hospitalized since February 14 due to bronchitis, which led to double pneumonia and a complex lung infection. He was treated with machines to help him breathe during several respiratory crises.
Doctors say the road ahead could be challenging, even if the 88-year-old pope fully recovers. “It’s an 88-year-old who’s been in the hospital for three weeks,” said Dr. Andrew Chadwick. “That’s not a sign that things are going well.”
The number of respiratory crises and complications suggests that the pneumonia is severe and requires intensive supporting measures, according to Dr. Meredith McCormack. Vatican authorities reported that Francis’ last respiratory crisis was on Monday, but doctors are still concerned about the risk of further infections.
However, there are encouraging signs that the pope might be getting better. He hasn’t needed a mechanical ventilator, which is a significant step in his recovery. Additionally, the fact that he was able to record an audio clip expressing gratitude for people’s good wishes shows that he can still communicate in a meaningful way.
Recovery will likely take a long time, with Dr. Eric Schmidt stating that severe pneumonia can have lasting consequences, including memory loss and depression. The pope has been receiving physical therapy to help his mobility, as well as respiratory physiotherapy to improve his breathing.
Experts are hoping to see Francis move from being acutely sick into receiving rehabilitation therapy. Even if he were to recover miraculously, it’s likely that he will need a prolonged period of rehab and will have to scale back some of his normal duties.
Source: https://time.com/7265721/pope-health-double-pneumonia