Thai king still in hospital but illnesses abating - palace

Most Thais have known no other king than Bhumibol, who has come to symbolise continuity in a country that has experienced rapid development and much political upheaval during his 69-year reign.

The ailing monarch has spent most of the last six years in hospital, and nervousness over the succession has formed the backdrop to a decade of political division.

The 87-year-old was readmitted to Bangkok's Siriraj hospital close to four months ago, and has since been treated for water on the brain, a blood infection and lung inflammation.

Symptoms of those last two illnesses have now mostly cleared up and he no longer needs antibiotics nor intravenous feeding, the palace said, adding that he continues to receive physical therapy.

(Reporting by Khettiya Jittapong; Writing by Simon Webb; Editing by Hugh Lawson)