Larisha Paul
Contact Larisha Paul on X View all posts by Larisha Paul September 30, 2026 Add us as a Google Preferred Source
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Billy Joel performs at Allegiant Stadium on November 09, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Ethan Miller/Getty Images Billy Joel doesn’t want anyone fretting too much over his health. The artist stepped away from performing last year after being diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, a brain disorder caused by an excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain’s ventricles. Still, he doesn’t think it’s a big deal.
“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,” Joel recently shared on SiriusXM while taking calls from fans. “I’m okay. My balance isn’t that good. Lost a little bit of my hearing, but that may have to do with my age, too, and the rock and roll life and the loud volume probably didn’t help. But I’m fine. I want people to not have to worry about me. I’m okay.”
After initially refusing surgical intervention, Joel had a shunt implanted to alleviate some effects of the disorder. The procedure has helped to improve his memory, balance, and overall function, he shared earlier this month.
