Billy Joel, the renowned 76-year-old singer, has canceled all his upcoming tour dates due to a recent health diagnosis. Joel, best known for hits like “Uptown Girl,” disclosed on social media that he has been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). This condition occurs when cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulates within the skull, exerting pressure on the brain and disrupting cognitive functions.
Joel’s condition has reportedly worsened due to his recent concert performances, leading to issues with hearing, vision, and balance. His medical team has advised him to abstain from performing during his recovery period. Joel is currently undergoing specialized physical therapy as part of his treatment plan.
NPH is a relatively rare condition, affecting approximately 0.2% of individuals between the ages of 70 and 80, and around 6% of those over 80. The condition arises when the body is unable to properly circulate or reabsorb CSF, leading to its accumulation and subsequent pressure within the skull. If left untreated, the continuous buildup of CSF can cause permanent damage by compressing the brain.
Symptoms of NPH are often similar to those seen in dementia patients, including difficulty walking, cognitive issues such as memory difficulties or emotional changes, and urinary incontinence. In some cases, NPH can be reversible.
Despite the diagnosis, Joel remains optimistic about his future. His team shared that he is grateful for the excellent medical care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health. He expressed his gratitude for the support from fans during this challenging time and is eagerly anticipating the day he can return to the stage.
Joel also released a personal statement to his fans, expressing his regret for disappointing his audience and thanking them for their understanding. Ticket holders for Joel’s canceled shows, which were scheduled in various locations including New York, New Orleans, Toronto, Santa Clara, California, Salt Lake City, Washington, DC, and Liverpool, will be automatically refunded.
Earlier this year, Joel had already postponed several tour dates due to a “medical condition.” In March, his team released a statement explaining that the current tour would be postponed for four months to allow him to recover from recent surgery and to undergo physical therapy under the supervision of his doctors.
Joel’s personal life has also been challenging recently. His wife, Alexis Roderick, has been dealing with health issues of her own, having been diagnosed with endometriosis, a condition causing chronic pain. Despite these difficulties, Roderick has praised Joel for his unwavering support as she navigates her health challenges.