Billy Joel shares first health update after brain disorder diagnosis
Billy Joel is providing an update on his health two months after announcing he was diagnosed with a brain disorder.
The "Piano Man" singer, 76, sat down with Bill Maher on the comedian's "Club Random" podcast in an episode released on Monday, July 21. Joel, who in May said he has been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, said he is feeling "fine" but having issues with his balance.
"My balance sucks," he said. "It's like being on a boat."
The singer continued, "I feel good. They keep referring to what I have as a brain disorder, so it sounds a lot worse than what I'm feeling." Joel also said he initially thought his balance issues were from drinking, noting that he used to drink "like a fish."
When Maher asked Joel if his health issues were fixed, though, the Grammy winner noted, "It's not fixed. It's still being worked on."
According to the Cleveland Clinic, normal pressure hydrocephalus occurs when fluid buildup disrupts brain function, and symptoms can include cognitive difficulties.
In May, Joel canceled his upcoming concerts due to the diagnosis. A statement shared on his Instagram said that his condition "has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance."
"Under his doctor's instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period," the statement said. "Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health. He is grateful for the support from fans during this time and looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage."
At the time, Joel also told fans that he was "sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience."
Billy Joel documentary premieres after health diagnosis
Since then, the first part of an HBO documentary about Joel, "Billy Joel: And So It Goes," premiered on July 18, with the second part set to debut on July 25.
Radio host Howard Stern previously relayed a health update on Joel in June, telling listeners that he had dinner with the singer, who seemed to be doing well.
"He does have issues, but he said, 'Yeah, you can tell people I'm not dying,'" Stern said on June 3. "He wants people to know that. He's just go to deal with some medical stuff."