Billy Joel announced the cancellation of his summer concerts due to a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus, which affects his hearing, vision, and balance. The condition, while treatable, is often underdiagnosed. Doctors praise Joel's openness about his condition, suggesting it may raise awareness and lead others to seek necessary help. Joel is currently undergoing physical therapy and remains hopeful about returning to the stage in the future. Normal pressure hydrocephalus occurs when cerebrospinal fluid builds up in the brain, resulting in various neurological complications.
"I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding," Joel, 76, told fans in a post to social media on Friday.
By going public with his diagnosis, the musician could help others, says Dr. Charles Matouk, vice chair of clinical affairs at the department of neurosurgery at Yale School of Medicine.
The condition is treatable, but underdiagnosed, doctors tell NPR.
Joel is undergoing physical therapy and says he hopes to return to the stage one day.
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