American singer and songwriter Billy Joel has been diagnosed with a brain disorder known as pressure hydrocephalus. Due to his condition, he has cancelled upcoming large-scale tour dates and concerts scheduled for this year and the next.

The 76-year-old singer has called off a total of 17 show dates for this year and next in North America and England after being diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus or N.P.H.

A statement on his social media handles showed that the condition worsened due to recent performances, causing hearing, vision, and balance issues. He is now undergoing physiotherapy and has been advised to avoid performing during recovery.

Normal pressure hydrocephalus is a rare ailment potentially treatable condition that mimics dementia symptoms, including difficulty walking, loss of bladder control, and mental decline. While the disease can often be managed through surgery usually by inserting a device to drain the excess fluid, early diagnosis is crucial. If left untreated, the damage may become irreversible.

Mr Joel’s last concert was on February 22 in Connecticut, where he stumbled and fell on stage but quickly got up and completed the show. A month later, he announced a four-month touring break for a “medical condition” requiring surgery and therapy, with plans to return on July 5 in Pittsburgh. It’s now likely that the earlier medical concerns were linked to his NPH diagnosis.

“While I regret postponing any shows, my health must come first,” Joel said in a previous statement. “I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans. I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience and thank you for understanding.’’

The music legend recently concluded a decade-long residency at Madison Square Garden in 2023 and continued touring with around two shows a month before the diagnosis.