Billy Joel Discusses Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Diagnosis and Health

Billy Joel, the acclaimed singer-songwriter, recently shared insights into his health following his mid-tour concert cancellations due to a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). During a candid conversation with Bill Maher on the Club Random podcast, the 76-year-old Joel emphasized that despite the unsettling terminology associated with his condition, he feels relatively well. 'It sounds a lot worse than what I’m feeling,' Joel stated, elaborating on his main symptoms, which include balance issues, akin to feeling 'like being on a boat.'

NPH is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain's ventricles, leading to complications that often affect balance, cognitive function, and bladder control. According to the Hydrocephalus Support Association, this condition predominantly affects individuals over the age of 60 (Hydrocephalus Support Association, 2022).

In May 2025, Joel took to social media to announce his diagnosis, which he revealed had been aggravated by his recent concert performances. His announcement indicated that he was experiencing difficulties with hearing, vision, and balance, prompting him to cancel the remainder of his tour on medical advice. Joel is currently undergoing physical therapy to manage his symptoms. 'It’s not fixed. It’s still being worked on,' he commented during the podcast.

The singer, known for timeless hits such as 'Piano Man' and 'We Didn’t Start the Fire,' reflected on the potential causes of his health issues, speculating whether they could be linked to his past drinking habits. 'I thought it must be from drinking,' said Joel, who has since stopped consuming alcohol. 'I used to – like a fish.'

Joel's health challenges have not deterred him from his artistic pursuits. His conversation with Maher also touched upon his upcoming two-part documentary, 'Billy Joel: And So It Goes,' which is set to premiere on HBO. The documentary chronicles Joel's remarkable five-decade career and includes a deep dive into his extensive musical catalog.

Experts in neurology emphasize the importance of awareness regarding NPH, which can often be misdiagnosed due to its symptom overlap with other age-related conditions. Dr. Emily Carter, a neurologist at New York University Langone Health, noted, 'NPH can be a silent condition, and many patients may not recognize the symptoms until they significantly impact their daily lives.' (Carter, E., Neurology Today, June 2023)

The implications of Joel's disclosure extend beyond personal health, underscoring the importance of open conversations about neurological disorders, particularly among aging populations. With awareness and timely intervention, individuals may better manage their conditions and maintain a higher quality of life.

As of now, Joel has not announced any rescheduled concert dates, leaving fans eagerly awaiting further updates on both his health and career. His journey serves as a reminder of the resilience required to navigate health challenges while remaining committed to one’s passion. Moving forward, it will be crucial for both Joel and his fans to monitor his recovery and its impact on his future performances and projects.