Billy Joel reveals significant health update following brain condition diagnosis
Billy Joel has opened up about his health following the revelation that he's been diagnosed with a brain related condition. The 76 year old singer-songwriter provided an update during a recent podcast appearance, where he discussed one of the symptoms he's currently experiencing.
Earlier this year, Billy revealed he had been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus. According to the NHS, it's considered 'uncommon' and typically impacts people over the age of 60 and symptoms can include issues with mobility and signs of dementia.
Grammy Award winner Billy has given an update on his health in a newly released podcast episode. Appearing as a guest on the latest instalment of the Club Random podcast, Billy told host Bill Maher that he's feeling "fine," the Mirror reports.
Podcast host Bill brought up the musician's new HBO documentary, Billy Joel: And So It Goes, which launched last week. He said: "I learned so much about you. First of all, your health. I mean, all your fans want to know ... you had something. Did we fix it?"
Addressing the question, Billy stated: "It's not fixed, it's still being worked on." After the host remarked that he "looks good" and "sounds good," Billy responded about his condition: "I feel fine. My balance sucks - it's like being on a boat."
Billy said that his condition, normal pressure hydrocephalus, was once known as "water on the brain." When asked what causes it, he said: "Nobody knows. They don't know."
He added: "I thought it must be from drinking." Billy then revealed that he doesn't drink "anymore," adding: "But I used to, like a fish."
He continued: "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, y'know."
It was announced in March that Billy had to postpone some of his concerts due to a medical condition that wasn't disclosed at the time. He had been due to perform at venues across the UK including Edinburgh's Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium on his latest tour.
A statement issued at the time read: ""[Billy's] upcoming concert dates will be rescheduled due to a medical condition. 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."
Billy, who was "expected to make a full recovery," expressed his regret in his own statement included in the announcement. He said: "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."
Two months later, it was revealed that he would be cancelling all scheduled gigs due to a 'recent' diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), as it was said that the gig had "exacerbated" the condition.
At the time, a statement read: "This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance. Under his doctor's instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period."
It continued: "Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritising his health. 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."
In a statement released at the time, Billy offered an apology to his fans. He said:"I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding."
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