Billy Joel diagnosed with brain condition — what to know about his treatment options

Billy Joel diagnosed with brain condition — what to know about his treatment options

Normal pressure hydrocephalus causes fluid buildup in the brain, often mimicking dementia

Billy Joel performs at Madison Square Garden on Dec. 19, 2023, in New York City. Following his diagnosis of a brain condition, Joel has canceled all scheduled concerts. (Getty Images)

The five-time Grammy winner, 76, announced on Friday that he has normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), which occurs when cerebrospinal fluid builds up inside or around the brain. (Kevin Mazur/Getty Images)

Normal pressure hydrocephalus is a version of the condition that is typically seen in older people, where the cerebrospinal fluid builds up without increasing the pressure in the brain. (iStock)

The condition is diagnosed through a combination of neurological exams, lab tests and diagnostic imaging (MRI or CT scans). (iStock)