Pope Francis, 88, battling double pneumonia and a severe lung infection, was said to be in a “critical condition” on Saturday after suffering from a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis, the Vatican said.
The pontiff who remained conscious was given “high flows” of oxygen to help him breathe and also received blood transfusions after tests showed a low blood platelet count, said Vatican in a late update.
The Vatican in the statement mentioned “The Holy Father’s condition continues to be critical, therefore, as explained yesterday (Friday), the pope is not out of danger.” This is the first time the word ‘critical’ was used in a written statement by the Vatican with regards to Pope’s health ever since his hospitalization on February 14.
Meanwhile doctors treating the pontiff fear the onset of sepsis, a life threatening condition, which can lead to organ failure and death. This could happen if germs in his respiratory system enter his bloodstream.
A chronic lung condition makes Pope prone to bronchitis in winter. After his bronchitis worsened, he was admitted to Gemelli hospital on February 14. While he was initially diagnosed with a complex viral, bacterial and fungal respiratory tract infection, the onset of pneumonia in both his lungs were diagnosed subsequently.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the head of medicine and surgery at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, said on Friday that the biggest threat facing Francis was that some of the germs that are currently located in his respiratory system pass into the bloodstream, causing sepsis. However, as of Friday, there was no evidence of any sepsis. Saturday’s blood tests showed the pontiff developed a low platelet count. This can be due to side effects from medicines or infections, according to the US National Institutes of Health.
Sepsis, with his respiratory problems and his age, would be really difficult to get out of,” Alfieri said in a statement. “The English say ‘knock on wood,’ we say ‘touch iron.’ Everyone touch what they want,” he said. “But this is the real risk in these cases: that these germs pass to the bloodstream.”
“He knows he’s in danger,” Alfieri added. “And he told us to convey that.”
What is sepsis?
Sepsis occurs due to body’s extreme reaction to an infection. Usually, the immune system works hard to fight an infection, but in some cases, the immune system may start damaging the normal tissues and organs instead, which could lead to widespread inflammation throughout the body.
Sepsis may progress to septic shock which could lead to a dramatic drop in blood pressure which can damage the lungs, kidneys, liver and other organs. This severe damage can lead to death.
People who are above 65 are more at risk of sepsis. Having chronic conditions like diabetes, obesity, cancer and kidney disease, and a weakened immune system can also raise chances of sepsis.
Being in the hospital for other medical reasons, or having severe injuries like large burns or wounds, having catheters, IVs or breathing tubes etc can also make one susceptible. Newborns, infants and pregnant women are also in at-risk group.
What are the symptoms of sepsis?
Sepsis can affect many different areas of your body, so there are many possible symptoms.
If an infection such as blood poisoning (septicemia) triggered your condition, you may develop a sepsis rash on your skin. The rash makes your skin appear red and discolored. You may see small, dark-red spots on your skin.
Sepsis symptoms
Reduced urination or an urge to urinate.
Low energy or weakness.
Fast heart rate and low blood pressure.
Fever or hypothermia (very low body temperature).
Shaking or chills.
Warm or clammy/sweaty skin.
Confusion or agitation.
Hyperventilation (rapid breathing) or shortness of breath.
Extreme pain or discomfort.
Lung infections such as pneumonia can raise risk of sepsis. Bacterial infections are most likely to trigger sepsis while fungal, parasitic and viral infections can also lead to sepsis. You can get sepsis when an infection triggers a chain reaction throughout your body causing organ dysfunction.
Sepsis complications
Sepsis survivors face an increased risk of death. Many die in the months and years after having sepsis. However, it’s not clear if the cause of death is a history of sepsis or some other underlying condition. Research studies show more than half of those who survive sepsis would die within five years.
With prompt treatment, many people recover fully from sepsis and resume normal lives, but others may face long-term complications. These can include insomnia, nightmares, hallucinations, panic attacks, and persistent joint and muscle pain. Cognitive difficulties, such as trouble with memory, concentration, and decision-making, are also common. In severe cases, organ failure may occur, leading to lasting health issues. Additionally, having had sepsis once increases the risk of developing it again, making it crucial to seek immediate treatment for any new infections.
