HealthAugust 16, 2026
hydrocephalus
HY-druh-SEF-uh-luhs
Definition
A medical condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain, which can lead to increased intracranial pressure and various cognitive or physical symptoms.
Etymology
The word is derived from the Greek words 'hydro-' (water) and 'kephalē' (head), literally meaning 'water in the head' as early descriptions thought the fluid was water.
In the news
The article mentions Billy Joel was diagnosed with a specific form of this condition, normal pressure hydrocephalus, which negatively impacted his balance, vision, and hearing.
EXCLUSIVE: Hollywood Stars Open Up About Memory Disorders, Stroke Recovery and Brain Health
Read the full article ↗RadarOnline