Brief
Billy Joel says his brain disorder isn’t as serious as headlines suggest
The 77‑year‑old singer says he’s fine after a shunt procedure for normal‑pressure hydrocephalus.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Billy Joel told SiriusXM on Thursday that his diagnosis of normal‑pressure hydrocephalus – a brain disorder caused by excess cerebrospinal fluid – is not as severe as the media portrays.
Joel, who paused performing last year, said, “I know people are worried about me because they read that I have a brain disorder, which sounds a lot worse than it actually is… I’m okay,” as reported by Rolling Stone.
He added that his balance is “not that good” and he has experienced some hearing loss, which he attributes partly to age and a lifelong rock‑and‑roll lifestyle. Earlier this month, Joel confirmed that he had a shunt implanted after initially refusing surgery, a procedure that has reportedly improved his memory, balance and overall function.
Joel’s team previously said the condition has been worsened by recent concert performances, leading to issues with hearing, vision and balance, and that he is following doctors’ orders to undergo physical therapy and avoid performing.
At 77, Joel said he cannot always tell whether health hiccups stem from the disorder or simply from aging, and he urged fans not to stress over his condition.
Key facts
- Billy Joel was diagnosed with normal‑pressure hydrocephalus last year. (rollingstone.com)
- He had a shunt implanted after initially refusing surgery. (rollingstone.com)
- Joel says his balance and hearing are affected but he feels fine. (rollingstone.com)
- His team says doctors have ordered physical therapy and a performance hiatus. (rollingstone.com)
Sources
- [1] rollingstone.com — originally reported as “Billy Joel Doesn't Want People Worrying About His Brain Disorder: 'Sounds a Lot Worse'”
