Billy Joel’s Diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
The Hydrocephalus Association extends its heartfelt support to Billy Joel and his Family
The Hydrocephalus Association extends its heartfelt support to Billy Joel and his family following his recent announcement of a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). We commend Mr. Joel for his courage in sharing his health journey, which brings much-needed awareness to this often misunderstood and under-diagnosed condition.
NPH is a neurological disorder characterized by an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain’s ventricles, leading to symptoms such as difficulty walking (gait disturbances), cognitive challenges often confused as Alzheimer’s, and urinary incontinence. It typically impacts individuals age 60 and over. Often referred to as a “treatable dementia,” NPH is one of the few conditions that can potentially be reversed with appropriate treatment. The standard treatment involves the surgical implantation of a shunt system to drain excess fluid from the brain, which can lead to significant improvements in symptoms for many patients.
Hydrocephalus Association President and CEO, Diana Gray, stated, “One million Americans live with hydrocephalus, the majority of whom have normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). Sadly, many older adults are either undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as having Alzheimer’s Disease or Parkinson’s Disease and may never have the opportunity to get the appropriate treatment they deserve.”
Mr. Joel’s openness about his diagnosis not only sheds light on NPH, but also emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention. We hope his journey inspires others experiencing similar symptoms to seek medical evaluation, as timely treatment can make a profound difference in outcomes.
The Hydrocephalus Association is the nation’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to finding a cure for hydrocephalus and improving the lives of those impacted by the condition. We wish Billy Joel a full and swift recovery and look forward to the day he returns to the stage. His resilience and transparency serve as an inspiration to many, and we stand with him and all those affected by hydrocephalus.
For more information about normal pressure hydrocephalus and available resources, please visit the Hydrocephalus Association’s website at www.hydroassoc.org.