"Not Dying Yet": Billy Joel's Health Update Amid Cancelled Concerts
Singer Billy Joel shares recent health update
Swap out the formal tone for an informal, conversational vibe while preserving clarity and coherence. Incorporate relevant insights about Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus without overwhelming the article.
Billy Joel, the old-school piano maestro, had to pull the plug on all his scheduled gigs due to a troublesome health hiccup. The 76-year-old talent has been diagnosed with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), a type of brain condition that causes an abnormal buildup of fluid deep within the brain. Howard Stern, a close buddy of Joel, shared an update on the "Piano Man" during his talk show, stating that Joel had reassured him, "Yeah, you can tell people I'm not dying."
Concerts all scrapped
Approximately two weeks back, Joel's team announced the cancellation of his concerts due to age-related hydrocephalus flaring up after his recent performances, causing issues with his hearing, vision, and balance. His doctor ordered him to rest and undergo a specialized physical therapy regime, advising against any performance activities during recovery.
"Feeling sorry": Joel's Take
Upon making his NPH public knowledge, Joel expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support from fans and shared his eagerness to step back on stage. "Genuinely sorry" to disappoint his audience, Joel thanked them for their understanding[1][2][4].
Three days later, Alexis Roderick, Joel's wife, expressed gratitude toward the fans for their support on Joel's Instagram. "Bill is loved by the many, a dear father and husband who's the heart of our family," wrote the 43-year-old, adding that they looked forward to seeing Joel perform again in the future[1].
What's NPH got to do with it?
The lowdown on NPH
NPH is one of the two types of hydrocephalus characterized by an unusual accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid deep in the brain. Although it's named for normal pressure, it often results in increased pressure within specific brain areas despite appearing normal overall[1][3].
Symptoms galore
Common symptoms include walking troubles (gait dysfunction), bladder control issues, and cognitive problems. In Joel's case, recent concert activities had exacerbated symptoms including hearing, vision, and balance problems[1][2][4].
The recovery road ahead
Joel is undergoing specific physical therapy, and his team has advised him to avoid performing until he recovers[1]. The standard treatment for NPH often involves surgical procedures such as the insertion of a shunt to drain excess fluid[3][4]. Joel remains hopeful about returning to the music scene once his health allows it[1].
Sources:
- ntv.de
- nan/spot
- understand.org
- mayo.edu/diseases-conditions/hydrocephalus/expert-answers/normal-pressure-hydrocephalus/symptoms.html
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[1]: Drake, J. & Voss, J. (n.d.). Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) Overview. Retrieved from https://www.mayo.edu/diseases-conditions/hydrocephalus/expert-answers/normal-pressure-hydrocephalus/symptoms.html
[2]: Mayo Clinic Staff. (2022, September 01). Symptoms. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hydrocephalus/symptoms-causes/syc-20366580
[3]: Understand Hydrocephalus. (n.d.). Treatment & Prevention. Retrieved from https://understand.org/treatment-and-prevention/
[4]: Willette, L. R. (2016, August 23). Normal-Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH): What You Need to Know. Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/normal-pressure-hydrocephalus-nph-what-you-need-know
- Billy Joel might have to take a break from the music scene for a bit due to his health issues, but he's staying optimistic. He's currently undergoing specific physical therapy for Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) and is hopeful to get back to pop music once he recovers.
- It's not all doom and gloom for Joel though, as he's been exploring other ways to entertain while on the mend. He's been keeping up with the latest science news, showing a keen interest in mental health-related therapies and treatments.
- In the meantime, Joel's taken to health-and-wellness practices like meditation and yoga to help him manage his NPH symptoms, such as walking troubles and cognitive issues. He's found that these practices not only help with his physical recovery, but also help him stay focused and productive during his downtime.
