Health Network: Former Fuhwa chairman Liao Kuo-hung dies suddenly, doctor warns of three stroke signs

Liao Kuo-hung, the former chairman of Fuhwa Group and Taichung Fuhwa Hotel, reportedly suffered a seizure on Aug. 15 and was rushed to hospital. Doctors removed a blood clot from his brain, but news of his death emerged days later, leaving relatives and friends grieving.

Liao was widely regarded as a leading figure in Taiwan’s hotel industry. The report uses his death to highlight the warning signs of an acute stroke and the need for immediate treatment.

Health education material from Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare says stroke occurs more often among older people, while the risk for those aged 55 and above doubles every 10 years. People with a family history of stroke should be especially cautious.

The three key warning signs are weakness in one arm or leg, an uneven face or drooping mouth, and slurred speech or an inability to speak. Anyone who notices one of these signs should record the time of onset and seek emergency medical care immediately. Doctors advise people not to panic or take medication on their own, but to go straight to an emergency department.

Stroke can result from a blocked blood vessel or bleeding in the brain. Ischemic strokes caused by blocked vessels account for about three-quarters of cases, while hemorrhagic strokes account for the remaining quarter. The report also links risk to high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, heart disease, smoking, alcohol use, weight and sleep, and urges people to manage chronic conditions and maintain healthier routines.