Pope Francis Shows Improvement with Oxygen Therapy: A Sigh of Relief?

According to the Vatican, **Pope Francis' condition is showing signs of improvement** as he undergoes high-flow oxygen therapy and treatment with a ventimask. The pontiff, 88, was admitted to the hospital on February 14 due to respiratory problems and was later diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia. The Vatican stated that "Given the complexity of his condition, further days of clinical stability are necessary to resolve the prognosis." It seems like everyone's holding their breath, hoping for the best. Despite his health challenges, **the Pope has been engaging in respiratory physiotherapy**, alternating it with periods of rest. The Vatican added that he spent time in prayer in the Chapel of his private apartment on the 10th floor, receiving the Eucharist, and also dedicated time to work activities. On Wednesday, Vatican officials reported that the kidney insufficiency that had been detected in recent days had receded. Blood tests indicated a slight improvement, and a chest CT scan revealed that his complex lung infection was progressing as expected under treatment. It's like watching a medical drama unfold in real-time! Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News Channel’s senior medical analyst, previously noted that bilateral pneumonia "is more problematic and more difficult to recover from," especially for "an elderly patient with scarring from previous surgeries and bouts of pneumonia." The Pope had part of his lung removed back in 1957, so he's definitely been through the wringer. Siegel also highlighted that the high-flow oxygen therapy the Pope is receiving, while addressing breathing issues, is less aggressive than methods like CPAP or mechanical ventilation. The fact that he is not on a ventilator is considered a "good sign." "Don’t underestimate the impact of great medical care combined with the power of prayer," Siegel concluded. Here's hoping both are working their magic.