Japan's former Emperor Akihito better day after fainting

Japan's 86-year-old former Emperor Akihito fainted at his residence though he regained strength after a good night's sleep, palace said Thursday. Akihito underwent an MRI of his brain that showed clinical condition that could cause a fall, but doctors recommended close monitoring of his health for a while, according to Imperial Household ncy.

Akihito abdicated last April and w holds title of Emperor Emeritus. His wife Michiko was at his side when Akihito fainted Wednesday at Imperial Palace and she called palace doctor, palace officials said.

doctors found Akihito still unconscious and sounding as if he was sring. He regained consciousness and went to bed but woke up rmally Thursday morning, officials said.

popular former emperor h symptoms of cerebral anaemia, or low red blood cell count, last July, when he briefly h difficulty standing, officials said.

Akihito reigned for 30 years and gained widespre respect and sympathy as a politically neutral symbol of nation and for his dedication to pacifism.

Akihito's son Naruhito ascended to Chrysanmum Throne on May 1.