Billy Joel diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, all you need to know about the condition

American singer and songwriter Billy Joel announced that all his scheduled concerts across the United States and England would be cancelled. The ‘Piano Man’ was expected to resume his tour on July 5 at the Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh.

The Grammy Award-winning artist announced that the decision to cancel the concerts came after his recent diagnosis of a rare brain disorder called Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH).

In a statement released by his team, they said that his recent concert performances have further exacerbated his condition, resulting in a compromise of his cognitive capabilities. A ticket refund was also assured by the team.

“This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance,” stated the statement released by his team. 

What is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)?

NPH is a condition where excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the fluid-filled ventricles of the brain, which causes the said fluid-filled chambers to become enlarged.

It is also being reported that Joel is undergoing specific physical therapy and is unable to perform under the advice of his doctors. “Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritising his health,” the statement said. This news comes after the March statement that detailed the postponement of eight concert dates quoting a medical condition. 

Hydrocephalus Association lists out various examinations or in some cases a combination of all to confirm the diagnosis. This includes:

·      Brain imaging exam to identify enlarged ventricles

·      Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

·      Computed tomography (CT scans)

·      Cisternography

·      Neuropsychological testing

·      Gait Assessment

·      Lumbar CSF

Symptoms:

NPH is typically associated with a triad of symptoms known as the Hakim’s triad. Cleveland Clinic mentions the following set of symptoms for the condition. 

1.    Gait Issues

2.    Cognitive Difficulties

3.    Urinary Incontinence

As per the Hydrocephalus Association, the disorder is most commonly seen in senior adults over the age of 60. More than 80 per cent of the cases remain undiagnosed or untreated and have also been misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. In an interview with the Association, Dr Abhay Moghekar, a neurologist at John Hopkins Cerebrospinal Fluid Center said, “They[patients] need to be their own best advocates.”

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