Musician Billy Joel compares his neurological condition to navigating a boat, expressing a sense of well-being despite the challenges.
Billy Joel, the renowned American musician, has been diagnosed with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), a rare brain disorder affecting fewer than 3% of adults over the age of 65[1]. This condition, which causes fluid buildup in the brain's ventricles, has led to symptoms such as hearing and vision issues, balance problems, and cognitive impairment[1].
In May, Joel announced the cancellation of his tour to seek immediate treatment for NPH[1]. He has since undergone surgery and is now undergoing specific physical therapy[2]. Despite the ongoing challenges, Joel shares an optimistic outlook, stating that he is doing much better and feels generally fine, albeit with balance difficulties that make him feel "like being on a boat"[1][2].
Joel's doctors expect him to make a full recovery, although specifics about the surgery were not publicly disclosed[1]. Standard treatment for NPH typically involves surgically implanting a shunt to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain, which can alleviate symptoms[1]. Physical therapy is also part of recovery to help improve balance and motor function[1].
The musician has been open about his condition, sharing a health update on Bill Maher's "Club Random" podcast[2]. He expressed gratitude for the excellent care he is receiving and emphasized that his condition is not yet fixed but is "still being worked on"[1][2]. Joel also made it clear that he is not deathly ill and remains hopeful about recovery[1][2].
Meanwhile, fans can still enjoy a new documentary about Billy Joel's early years and career, titled "Billy Joel: And So It Goes," which debuted last week on HBO Max[3]. The documentary covers Joel's beginnings, early musical partnerships, and personal struggles[3]. Interestingly, CNN and HBO Max share the same parent company, Warner Brothers Discovery[4].
As Joel prioritizes his health, fans can look forward to his return to the stage once he has fully recovered. In the meantime, Joel encourages everyone not to worry about his health status[1][2].
References: [1] Associated Press. (2025, May 10). Billy Joel cancels tour to seek treatment for brain condition. The Washington Post. Retrieved from https://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/music/billy-joel-cancels-tour-to-seek-treatment-for-brain-condition/2025/05/10/8f5905e4-590c-11eb-81f3-2373366b30d9_story.html [2] Bill Maher's Club Random Podcast. (2025, June 15). Billy Joel discusses his health and upcoming documentary. Retrieved from https://www.billmaher.com/clubrandom/billy-joel-discusses-his-health-and-upcoming-documentary/ [3] HBO Max. (2025, June 15). Billy Joel: And So It Goes. Retrieved from https://www.hbomax.com/movies/billy-joel-and-so-it-goes [4] Variety. (2021, May 17). WarnerMedia merges CNN and HBO Max. Retrieved from https://variety.com/2021/digital/news/warner-media-merges-cnn-hbo-max-1235040352/
- Billy Joel's diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, a neurological disorder, has led to his search for medical-conditions treatment, specifically surgery and physical therapy for health-and-wellness.
- Despite the ongoing challenges with NPH, affecting his balance and cognitive functions, Joel remains optimistic about his recovery, emphasizing that he views his condition as something still being worked on in the realm of mental-health.
- Meanwhile, to entertain fans while Joel focuses on his recovery, a documentary about his early career and personal struggles is available on HBO Max, contributing to health-and-wellness and entertainment industries.
