Billy Joel, 76, breaks silence on his brain disorder and how it forced him to step back from music

Daily Mail​

5 days ago

Billy Joel gave an emotional update on his health amid his battle with the brain disorder normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).
He revealed his diagnosis in May, and announced the cancellation of his forthcoming concerts following recent onstage struggles.
The condition's impacted the 76-year-old's 'hearing, vision, and balance', and he opened up about his condition on Monday's Club Random With Bill Maher podcast, where he said: 'I feel fine. My balance sucks. It's like being a boat.'
Joel said doctors could not identify the cause of the condition, and said: 'They don't know… I thought it must be from drinking.'
Over the years, Joel's been open about his struggles with alcohol and substance abuse, as well as his battles with mental health, which at one point led to a suicide attempt amid career pressures.
He said: 'I feel good. They keep referring to what I have as a brain disorder, so it sounds a lot worse than what I'm feeling.'
According to Mayo Clinic: 'Hydrocephalus is the buildup of fluid in the brain, enlarging the ventricles and puts pressure on brain tissue, potentially causing damage and neurological symptoms.'
Joel underwent targeted physical therapy as prescribed by his doctor and was 'advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period'.
When diagnosed early, NPH could be effectively treated with surgery to drain excess fluid from the brain to relieve pressure and the symptoms.
However, if left untreated, the condition could cause permanent damage later on.
The musical legend also expressed his gratitude for the care he had received and thanked fans for their continued support.
Joel said on Instagram: 'I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.'
A statement added: 'Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health.'
Opening up: The singer used Instagram to share details of his diagnosis
The post added: 'He is grateful for the support from fans during this time and looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage.'
The new health update was after Joel previously postponed his tour by only four months 'due to a medical condition'.
A statement on Instagram on March 11 revealed the tour had been halted after Joel underwent a recent surgery: 'The current tour will 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 is expected to make a full recovery.'
The star posted: 'While I regret postponing any shows, my health must come first. I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans. Thank you for your understanding.'
Multiple fans speculated if his medical issues were connected to a recent fall on stage.
In late February, Joel suffered a nasty fall during a gig at the Mohegan Sun resort in Connecticut, which sparked major fear amongst fans.
Footage from the show captured the Grammy-winner as he spun a mic stand before he hurled it across the stage - only to suddenly topple over moments later.
Photos and clips of the fall captured Joel as he appeared to stumble before hitting the stage hard on his side, then rolling on to his back.
Joel was helped up and managed to carry on with the rest of the show.