Grammy winner Billy Joel halts performances due to brain condition
Legendary singer Billy Joel has recently been diagnosed with a brain condition known as normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), leading him to cancel all of his scheduled concerts. The 76-year-old five-time Grammy winner made the announcement on his website, explaining that the condition has been exacerbated by recent performances, causing issues with hearing, vision, and balance.
NPH is a type of hydrocephalus where cerebrospinal fluid builds up around the brain without increasing pressure, particularly affecting older individuals. This buildup can impact brain function, leading to problems with thinking, memory, movement, and focus. Symptoms of NPH include gait issues, urinary incontinence, and cognitive difficulties, collectively known as “Hakim’s triad.”
Dr. Mia Kazanjian, a board-certified radiologist, explains that cognitive problems associated with NPH can include memory loss, slow thinking, and difficulty, which can significantly impact daily activities and emotional well-being. Urinary incontinence can cause discomfort and predispose individuals to infections, while gait impairment can lead to falls and injuries.
The condition can often be mistaken for dementia, but timely diagnosis and treatment can help reverse some cases of NPH. The average age of onset for NPH is around 70, with the main treatment being a surgical procedure called shunting. This involves implanting a device with two tubes to regulate the amount of fluid in the brain, improving symptoms within hours or days of the surgery.
Experts emphasize the importance of timely treatment to prevent severe or permanent damage to the brain caused by the excess fluid pressure. While the diagnosis may have led to concert cancellations, Billy Joel is undergoing specific physical therapy as advised by his doctors to aid in his recovery. Fans and well-wishers are hopeful for his quick recuperation and return to the stage.
