Pope Francis was treated from bilateral pneumonia, infection in both lungs, by Monday dies in 88. While the Apostolic Chair has not yet commented on the case of the death of the Pope, the Pope was in the hospital for 38 days of respiratory infection until March 23.
The Apostolic Chair said at the time that the Pope had a “multi -polymers”, that is, driven by multiple germs. It was a chronic and severe pulmonary infection, respectively, called bronchi and asthma bronchitis. Despite this, the Holy See confirmed this The Pope was “in a good mood”.
Pneumonia is an infection This raises the air bags of two or both lungs, the ability to cause coughing, fever, feeling, fatigue, and difficulty breathing, according to the UK national health service (NHS). It is usually caused by a bacterial, viral or fungal infection, and you can get a person who is already suffering.
This respiratory infection can be treated within two weeks with antibiotics among the general population, but it can be pneumonia It is likely to be fatal For the elderly, children and people who suffer from heart or pulmonary conditions.
Pope Francis has been at greater risk of lung conditions, since then They removed the upper lobe from the right lung When I was 20 years old, due to the development of a condition called Pleersia. The Apostolic Chair also said in February that the Pope suffered from bronchitis, which is combined with asthma and bronchitis.
Why are older patients more likely?
according to A study published in 2003 For “Revue Médica Suisse”, the incidence of pneumonia in the elderly at home is estimated between 25 and 44 per 1000 people, that is, Four times more than young adults. In addition, the disease includes more hospitals, a larger and long -term water and a greater risk of complications.
One of the reasons is that the effectiveness of the immune system, which works to combat infections, decreases with age. the Respiratory capabilities also They weaken With our age, which means coughing, one of the forms that the body has to combat infection is less effective. Bacterial plants of the mouth, which are a barrier against pathogens, are also subject to changes over time and can be “colonized” by potential harmful bacteria.
The aforementioned study research shows that only 8 % of their youth have It is possible that the bacteria are harmful In the upper respiratory system, while this percentage was 20 % among healthy people over 65 years old.
Pneumonia is also more It is difficult to diagnose In the elderly because the usual appearances are from illnessLike fever and coughing, they are usually less dangerous or absent compared to younger patients. Cognitive deterioration, indifference and loss of consciousness can be symptoms among the elderly, which can delay treatment. Pneumonia can also exacerbate current diseases.
How can it be prevented?
The UK National Health Service (NHS) advises people over the age Rheumatic Anti -core. Both can be managed at the same time.
