On Might 23, veteran musician Billy Joel cancelled his upcoming concert events on account of current well being considerations. In an announcement launched by his workforce, it was revealed that he has been identified with a mind situation generally known as Regular Stress Hydrocephalus, or NPH for brief.
So, what precisely is that this situation — and what occurs in it?
What’s Regular Stress Hydrocephalus?
NPH or Regular Stress Hydrocephalus is a situation in which there’s fluid improvement inside or across the mind. This situation disrupts regular mind perform. It hampers a number of brain-related talents, together with considering and concentrating, reminiscence, motion and extra. Whereas its signs typically resemble dementia, NPH is at occasions reversible.
NPH is most typical in folks over 65, changing into increasingly more widespread the older an individual will get. The common age for this situation to begin is round age 70.
Rising age is the one issue that makes this situation extra more likely to occur. The chances of it occurring don’t change relying on an individual’s ethnicity, race, or intercourse.
What occurs in NPH?
Regular Stress Hydrocephalus (NPH) happens when cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up within the mind. CSF is an important fluid that helps ship vitamins to the mind and take away waste. Your physique is continually producing, circulating, and reabsorbing CSF to take care of a gentle quantity.
Though the quantity of CSF may appear small, it performs an vital function. It surrounds the mind and spinal wire, permitting the mind to drift inside the cranium. It additionally acts as a cushion, defending the mind and spinal wire from damage.
When the physique can’t correctly flow into or soak up CSF, the fluid can begin to gather within the mind. Whereas the mind’s ventricles can maintain some further fluid, an excessive amount of buildup leaves no room for it to go. As strain will increase, the mind will get compressed, resulting in the signs of NPH. If this strain continues for too lengthy, it could actually trigger lasting injury or destruction to mind tissue.
What occurred to Billy Joel?
NPH has brought about Billy Joel important well being challenges, together with difficulties with listening to, imaginative and prescient and stability. Based on the official assertion, these signs have been aggravated throughout his current exhibits, prompting his medical workforce to intervene.
The assertion additionally assured ticket holders that refunds will likely be dealt with mechanically.
Followers throughout the globe have begun sending messages of assist and effectively needs for Joel’s restoration, with many expressing hope that he’ll return to the stage quickly.
