Emperor Akihito, the former emperor of Japan, has developed supraventricular arrhythmia at age 91. This sudden onset condition leads to the heart beating 100s of beats per minute. Consequently, the emperor faces increasing health challenges. Until the diagnosis, he was encouraged to not take the stairs. He now needs to reduce his physical exertion, such as his daily walks.
Emperor Akihito was admitted to the hospital on Monday, receiving treatment for his heart complications since. This last health difficulty continues a long history of maladies for Japan’s ex-emperor. In 2022, physicians ultimately diagnosed him with right heart failure due to tricuspid valve insufficiency. This diagnosis cast a long, dark shadow over all aspects of his health and even his future. Additionally, in 2018, he suffered some complications from his dizziness and nausea, due to lack of blood flow reaching his brain.
The emperor’s health has been under strict scrutiny ever since he received treatment for prostate cancer in 2003. As part of his continuing care from the stroke, he has had occupational and physical therapy and other clinicians educate him on lifestyle changes. The NHS recommends that individuals with similar conditions limit their intake of coffee, alcohol, and strenuous exercise to manage their symptoms effectively.
Nonetheless, not to underplay all of these challenges, an official said, “As of now he’s just doing day-to-day regular life. Additionally, Gautam Deshpande, a medical professional, remarked on Emperor Akihito’s recent diagnosis: “It’s a very, very liveable condition. It’s absolutely not surprising for an on-the-go guy and at 88 years old.”
In 2016, Emperor Akihito communicated that he was planning to abdicate the Chrysanthemum Throne because of worry over his aging age. He formally abdicated in 2019, handing the imperial title to his son, Emperor Naruhito. Since then the former emperor’s health has been a matter of public interest and concern.
Former Emperor Akihito’s recent hospitalization reminds us that his health concerns continue to affect his life and ability to serve on a regular basis. His family continues to be by his side, with Empress Michiko by his side on his hospital visit.
