Pope Francis In Critical Condition, Diagnosed With Bilateral Pneumonia, Mild Kidney Failure: Vatican Confirms

Pope Francis had a peaceful ninth night at Rome's Gemelli Hospital where he is being treated for double pneumonia. Let us understand bilateral pneumonia and symptoms associated with it.

Pope Francis in Critical Condition with Signs of 'Mild' Kidney Failure

Pope Francis' Latest News: Pope Francis remains in critical condition, with blood tests showing mild signs of kidney failure "which is currently under control," the Vatican said. According to the reports, he has developed severe pneumonia in both his lungs. The Vatican further revealed that 88-year-old Francis, who was hospitalized over a week ago, has not shown further respiratory crises.

This announcement has sparked significant concern across the globe, with millions expressing their support and prayers for the 87-year-old pontiff. Although the Vatican's statement emphasized that kidney failure is currently classified as 'mild,' medical experts caution that even mild kidney issues can escalate rapidly, especially in elderly patients.

What Is Bilateral Pneumonia Pope Francis Suffering From

Pope Francis, 88, has been admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome after battling breathing difficulties for the past week. In a report, the Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis has been diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia-- a condition wherein both of his lungs are affected with pneumonia (or filled with push and fluid-- making it difficult to function).

The Vatican has further stated that Francis' condition is considered critical, and is currently under medical supervision. "Some of his blood tests indicate "an initial, mild, renal failure, which is currently under control," the Vatican added, noting that the Pope continues to be "vigilant and well-oriented."

What is Bilateral Pneumonia?

Bilateral pneumonia is a type of pneumonia that affects both lungs. Unlike regular pneumonia, which may affect just one lung or a portion of it, bilateral pneumonia can be more severe because it compromises a larger area of lung tissue, making breathing significantly harder.

How Does It Affect the Body?

Medical experts say that pneumonia is a serious health condition that can make it difficult for the lungs to function properly. It usually leads to the accumulation of pus and fluid inside the alveoli which impairs the organ completely. Here is what happens when both the lungs are affected:

1. Severe Lung Inflammation: Bilateral Pneumonia can impair the way the lungs function normally. It is marked by a condition where in pus and fluid fills inside the alveoli, leading to unusual swelling and inflammation of the organ. When this happens, it becomes difficult for the patient to breathe normally.
2. Reduced Oxygen Exchange: In the case of bilateral pneumonia, wherein both the lungs stop working, the body may struggle to get enough oxygen into the bloodstream -- which can kill the cells -- leading to the death of the patient.
3. Strain on the Heart: Yes, even the heart finds it difficult to function when both the lungs are not working properly. With both the lungs filled with pus and fluid, everything is left for the heart to run the system -- this can cause excessive strain on the heart as it is forced to work harder to pump oxygen-depleted blood, potentially causing complications.

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Pope Francis Asks Everyone To Pray For Him

"The complexity of the clinical picture, and the necessary wait for pharmacological therapies to provide some feedback, require that the prognosis remain reserved," the Vatican stated. In a post on X, the Pope thanked his followers for their prayers around the world.