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Billy Joel Cancels Tour After Being Diagnosed with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

Billy Joel Cancels Tour After Being Diagnosed with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

Billy Joel’s Health Shocker Leaves Fans Concerned

Legendary musician Billy Joel has cancelled his upcoming concert tour across North America and the UK after being diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a rare neurological condition that affects brain function. The announcement, made via social media and official statements from his team, has sparked an outpouring of support from fans worldwide.

According to a statement shared on his social media accounts on Friday, Billy is currently receiving targeted physical therapy and has been instructed to avoid performing while he recovers. Image Credit: Ethan Miller/Getty Images

At 76, Joel has continued to tour actively following the end of his historic Madison Square Garden residency in 2024. However, in recent months, he postponed several shows due to what was initially described as a “medical issue.” Now, we know that Billy Joel’s health has been impacted by NPH, a condition that causes a build-up of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain without increasing pressure, hence the term “normal pressure”.

What is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus?

Normal pressure hydrocephalus is a condition that typically affects older adults, usually beginning around the age of 70. It occurs when cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain’s ventricles, leading to the compression of surrounding brain tissue. Despite the pressure being within the normal range, the effect on the brain can be severe.

Normal pressure hydrocephalus occurs when cerebrospinal fluid gradually accumulates in the skull, putting pressure on the brain. This pressure interferes with brain function and leads to various symptoms. [Image Credit: Cleveland Clinic]

The main symptoms of NPH include:

  • Difficulty walking (often described as a magnetic or shuffling gait)
  • Memory issues and cognitive decline
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Loss of balance
  • Vision and hearing disturbances

These symptoms can closely mimic those of dementia, making diagnosis difficult. Thankfully, unlike dementia, NPH can often be treated, especially if caught early.

Billy Joel’s Diagnosis and Recovery Plan

According to Joel’s management team, his symptoms were aggravated by the demands of recent live performances. The statement detailed how the condition had affected his hearing, vision and balance, prompting immediate medical intervention.

“Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy Joel is undergoing targeted physical therapy,” the statement read. “He has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period.”

Joel himself issued a heartfelt apology: “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.”

Can Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Be Treated?

Fortunately, NPH is one of the few neurological conditions that can sometimes be reversed. The standard treatment involves the surgical insertion of a shunt—a thin tube that drains excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain to another part of the body, usually the abdomen.

In addition to surgery, patients often require rehabilitation through physical therapy to regain strength, balance, and coordination. Joel’s care team has not confirmed whether he will undergo shunt surgery, but has emphasised he is receiving excellent medical attention.

Impact on Fans and Tour Refunds

The cancelled concerts span multiple cities including New York, New Orleans, Toronto, Liverpool, and Washington D.C. Fortunately, fans who purchased tickets will be automatically refunded and need not take any action.

Billy Joel has reassured his followers that this is not a retirement announcement. While the normal pressure hydrocephalus diagnosis has paused his touring schedule, Joel has expressed hope for a full recovery and a return to the stage.

“I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans,” he said.

Family Support During Billy Joel’s Health Crisis

Behind the scenes, Joel is being supported by his wife, Alexis Roderick, and their two daughters. Alexis recently opened up about her own health battles with endometriosis, expressing deep gratitude for Joel’s support during her diagnosis and treatment.

Now, the roles have reversed, with Roderick and the rest of the family standing by Joel as he prioritises his health.

“Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritising his health,” the team’s statement noted.

Raising Awareness of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

The announcement of Billy Joel’s health condition has inadvertently cast a spotlight on normal pressure hydrocephalus, a relatively unknown but serious illness. It’s estimated to affect 0.2% of individuals aged 70–80, and up to 5.9% of people over 80. Despite this, NPH often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, as its symptoms closely resemble those of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

Medical professionals stress the importance of early detection and specialist consultation. With timely intervention, many patients regain much of their lost cognitive and physical function—something Joel and his team are no doubt hopeful about.

Looking Ahead

As Billy Joel steps away from the spotlight to focus on his recovery from normal pressure hydrocephalus, fans around the world are rallying behind him. While live performances are off the table for now, his commitment to recovery and eventual return is unwavering.

For now, the music world holds its breath, waiting for the day when The Piano Man once again takes to the stage.

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