Latest news with #Mayo Clinic
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
‘Fit and Healthy' Dad of Four, 57, Gets Random Whiffs of 'Strange, Sweet Caramel Smell.' It's a Fatal Sign
A 'fit and healthy' man was given the devastating diagnosis that he had an inoperable brain tumor — and his only symptom was that he would randomly smell 'sweet caramel.' Costa Fantis, 57, would randomly smell something sweet, his son, Antonio, said, according to Daily Mail. 'His sense of smell changed and he kept getting this strange sweet caramel smell. We didn't think much of it. We definitely didn't know it was a symptom of something so serious.' Antonio shared that his father, a chip shop owner who hails from the English town of Stoke-on-Trent, would smell the 'sweet smell' sporadically: 'On the odd occasion he would have a caramel smell … it would happen very quickly, and once a month or so.' Since his father struggled with epilepsy as a child, Antonio explains that 'we told him to have a scan and said it's probably going to be in relation to the epilepsy. We weren't really thinking anything of it at all, as he was a really fit and healthy man.' When Costa underwent tests in April 2024, the family was given bleak, unexpected news: He had stage 4 IDH-wildtype glioblastoma. 'There's no cure for glioblastoma," the Mayo Clinic explains. "Treatments might slow cancer growth and reduce symptoms.' And as the National Library of Medicine says, IDH-Wildtype [glioblastoma] — which Costa has — is 'an incurable disease with poor survival.' Antonio explains that the family was 'worried, scared, nervous — but then, still trying to get to grips with the situation and what was going on because he had no symptoms' apart from the smell. "It's really bizarre because symptoms-wise he didn't have much at all," Antonio told the outlet. Phantom smells — like what Costa experienced with the caramel scent — is known as phantosmia, and can, rarely, be a sign of a brain tumor. 'It just kind of proves that you can be a fit and healthy man yet still have something wrong with you,' Antonio tells the outlet, sharing that his father has undergone chemotherapy and radiation for the tumor — but is now looking for alternative treatments, as 'in the last 20 years the treatments haven't changed for glioblastomas.' 'It's quite a scary thing to be diagnosed with,' Antonio says, sharing his family has been told, 'just enjoy your life, in the most harrowing way possible.' Never miss a story — sign up for to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Read the original article on People
Daily Mail
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Billy Joel, 76, breaks silence on his brain disorder and how it forced him to step back from music
Billy Joel gave an emotional update on his health amid his battle with the brain disorder normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). He revealed his diagnosis in May, and announced the cancellation of his forthcoming concerts following recent onstage struggles. The condition's impacted the 76-year-old's 'hearing, vision, and balance', and he opened up about his condition on Monday's Club Random With Bill Maher podcast, where he said: 'I feel fine. My balance sucks. It's like being a boat.' Joel said doctors could not identify the cause of the condition, and said: 'They don't know… I thought it must be from drinking.' Over the years, Joel's been open about his struggles with alcohol and substance abuse, as well as his battles with mental health, which at one point led to a suicide attempt amid career pressures. He said: '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.' According to Mayo Clinic: 'Hydrocephalus is the buildup of fluid in the brain, enlarging the ventricles and puts pressure on brain tissue, potentially causing damage and neurological symptoms.' Joel underwent targeted physical therapy as prescribed by his doctor and was 'advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period'. When diagnosed early, NPH could be effectively treated with surgery to drain excess fluid from the brain to relieve pressure and the symptoms. However, if left untreated, the condition could cause permanent damage later on. The musical legend also expressed his gratitude for the care he had received and thanked fans for their continued support. Joel said on Instagram: 'I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.' A statement added: 'Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health.' Opening up: The singer used Instagram to share details of his diagnosis The post added: '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.' The new health update was after Joel previously postponed his tour by only four months 'due to a medical condition'. A statement on Instagram on March 11 revealed the tour had been halted after Joel underwent a recent surgery: 'The current tour will be postponed for four months to allow him to recover from recent surgery and to undergo physical therapy under the supervision of his doctors. 'Joel is expected to make a full recovery.' The star posted: 'While I regret postponing any shows, my health must come first. I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans. Thank you for your understanding.' Multiple fans speculated if his medical issues were connected to a recent fall on stage. In late February, Joel suffered a nasty fall during a gig at the Mohegan Sun resort in Connecticut, which sparked major fear amongst fans. Footage from the show captured the Grammy-winner as he spun a mic stand before he hurled it across the stage - only to suddenly topple over moments later. Photos and clips of the fall captured Joel as he appeared to stumble before hitting the stage hard on his side, then rolling on to his back. Joel was helped up and managed to carry on with the rest of the show.
Daily Mail
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Billy Joel, 76, breaks silence on brain disorder battle which forced him to step back from singing career
Billy Joel has given an emotional update on his health amid his battle with brain disorder, normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). In May, music icon Joel, 76, revealed his diagnosis and announced the cancellation of his upcoming concerts, following recent onstage struggles. The condition has impacted Joel's 'hearing, vision, and balance,' with the Uptown Girl hitmaker opening up about his condition on Monday's Bill Maher's Club Random podcast. He said: 'I feel fine. My balance sucks. It's like being a boat.' Joel said doctors cannot identify the cause of the condition, adding: 'They don't know… I thought it must be from drinking.' Over the years, Joel has been open about his struggles with alcohol and substance abuse, as well as his battles with mental health, which at one point led to a suicide attempt amid career pressures. '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' he said. 'Hydrocephalus is the buildup of fluid in the brain, enlarging the ventricles and puts pressure on brain tissue, potentially causing damage and neurological symptoms,' per Mayo Clinic. Joel is currently undergoing targeted physical therapy as prescribed by his doctor and has been 'advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period.' When diagnosed early, NPH can often be effectively treated with surgery that drains excess fluid from the brain, relieving pressure and symptoms. However, if left untreated, the condition may lead to permanent damage in its later stages. The legendary musician also expressed his gratitude for the care he's receiving and thanked fans for their continued support. 'I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding,' Joel wrote on Instagram. 'Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health,' the statement added. The condition has impacted Joel's 'hearing, vision, and balance,' with the Uptown Girls hitmaker opening up about his condition on Monday's Bill Maher's Club Random podcast (seen in July 2024) It continued, '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.' Fans won't need to take any steps to receive a refund—payments will be automatically returned to the original form of purchase. Canceled dates include his summer show in New York City, along with stops in New Orleans, Toronto, Santa Clara, Salt Lake City, Washington, D.C., and Liverpool. The new health update comes after Joel previously postponed his tour by only four months 'due to a medical condition.' A statement posted to his Instagram on March 11 revealed the tour has been halted after the Uptown Girl singer underwent a recent surgery. 'The current tour will be postponed for four months to allow him to recover from recent surgery and to undergo physical therapy under the supervision of his doctors. Joel is expected to make a full recovery. The tour will resume at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh on July 5, 2025,' the post read. 'While I regret postponing any shows, my health must come first. I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans. Thank you for your understanding,' Joel said in the statement at the time. Multiple fans also speculated if his medical issues were connected to his recent fall on stage. In late February, Joel suffered a nasty fall on stage during a gig at the Mohegan Sun resort in Monteville, Connecticut, sparking major fear amongst fans. Footage from the show captures the Grammy winner spinning a microphone stand before hurling it across the stage—only to suddenly topple over moments later. The musician was helped up by his band managed to carry on with the rest of the show and sang one more song for his fans. Photos of the unsettling fall capture Joel—dressed in an all-black suit and dress shoes—appearing to stumble before hitting the stage hard on his side, then rolling onto his back. And the songwriter has never been one to shy away from discussing the realities of aging. In a conversation with BBC Radio 2 DJ Zoe Ball, he was asked whether he maintains a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise. His candid response? 'None of the above. I don't think I look all that good. But I don't look in the mirror that often, which helps a lot. There's a saying, "things don't look half bad with one eye closed."' Billy's illustrious career as a musician began back in the mid-1960s, which led to the release of debut studio album, Cold Spring Harbor (1971). But it failed to gain any real traction until after the success of his follow-up, Piano Man (1973), that peaked at number 25 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number four on the Adult Contemporary singles chart. Now an established name on the musical landscape, Joel became a million seller with the release of Streetlife Serenade (1974), but his commercial breakout making him a bonafide star came with the release of The Stranger (1977), which featured the hit singles Movin' Out (Anthony's Song), Just The Way You Are, She's Always a Woman, The Stranger, and Only The Good Die Young. He would go on to release a 13th album - Fantasies & Delusions (2001) - that features classical compositions from Joel, a first for him during his career. With over 160 million records sold worldwide, Billy Joel is one of the world's best-selling musical artists, and the fourth-best-selling solo artist in the United States.
Daily Mail
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
BREAKING NEWS Billy Joel, 76, breaks silence on brain disorder battle which forced him to step back from singing career
Billy Joel has given an emotional update on his health amid his battle with brain disorder, normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). In May, music icon Joel, 76, revealed his diagnosis and announced the cancellation of his upcoming concerts, following recent onstage struggles. The condition has impacted Joel's 'hearing, vision, and balance,' with the Uptown Girl hitmaker opening up about his condition on Monday's Bill Maher's Club Random podcast. He said: 'I feel fine. My balance sucks. It's like being a boat.' Joel said doctors cannot identify the cause of the condition, adding: 'They don't know… I thought it must be from drinking.' Over the years, Joel has been open about his struggles with alcohol and substance abuse, as well as his battles with mental health, which at one point led to a suicide attempt amid career pressures. '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' he said. 'Hydrocephalus is the buildup of fluid in the brain, enlarging the ventricles and puts pressure on brain tissue, potentially causing damage and neurological symptoms,' per Mayo Clinic. Joel is currently undergoing targeted physical therapy as prescribed by his doctor and has been 'advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period.' When diagnosed early, NPH can often be effectively treated with surgery that drains excess fluid from the brain, relieving pressure and symptoms. However, if left untreated, the condition may lead to permanent damage in its later stages. The legendary musician also expressed his gratitude for the care he's receiving and thanked fans for their continued support. 'I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding,' Joel wrote on Instagram. 'Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health,' the statement added. It continued, '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.' Fans won't need to take any steps to receive a refund—payments will be automatically returned to the original form of purchase. Canceled dates include his summer show in New York City, along with stops in New Orleans, Toronto, Santa Clara, Salt Lake City, Washington, D.C., and Liverpool. The new health update comes after Joel previously postponed his tour by only four months 'due to a medical condition.' A statement posted to his Instagram on March 11 revealed the tour has been halted after the Uptown Girl singer underwent a recent surgery. 'The current tour will be postponed for four months to allow him to recover from recent surgery and to undergo physical therapy under the supervision of his doctors. Joel is expected to make a full recovery. The tour will resume at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh on July 5, 2025,' the post read. 'While I regret postponing any shows, my health must come first. I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans. Thank you for your understanding,' Joel said in the statement at the time. Multiple fans also speculated if his medical issues were connected to his recent fall on stage. In late February, Joel suffered a nasty fall on stage during a gig at the Mohegan Sun resort in Monteville, Connecticut, sparking major fear amongst fans. Footage from the show captures the Grammy winner spinning a microphone stand before hurling it across the stage—only to suddenly topple over moments later. The musician was helped up by his band managed to carry on with the rest of the show and sang one more song for his fans. Photos of the unsettling fall capture Joel—dressed in an all-black suit and dress shoes—appearing to stumble before hitting the stage hard on his side, then rolling onto his back. And the songwriter has never been one to shy away from discussing the realities of aging. In a conversation with BBC Radio 2 DJ Zoe Ball, he was asked whether he maintains a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise. His candid response? 'None of the above. I don't think I look all that good. But I don't look in the mirror that often, which helps a lot. There's a saying, "things don't look half bad with one eye closed."' Reflecting on what he's most proud of, the legendary musician summed it up simply: 'My ability to move on with life. I've had difficulties in my life, but it never stopped me from continuing. Troubles with business didn't stop me from doing business. I have no bitterness about anything, even people who rip me off, I let it go. I'm content with that. I'm happy. I'm having a happy ending.' Billy's illustrious career as a musician began back in the mid-1960s, which led to the release of debut studio album, Cold Spring Harbor (1971). But it failed to gain any real traction until after the success of his follow-up, Piano Man (1973), that peaked at number 25 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number four on the Adult Contemporary singles chart. Now an established name on the musical landscape, Joel became a million seller with the release of Streetlife Serenade (1974), but his commercial breakout making him a bonafide star came with the release of The Stranger (1977), which featured the hit singles Movin' Out (Anthony's Song), Just The Way You Are, She's Always a Woman, The Stranger, and Only The Good Die Young. He would go on to release a 13th album - Fantasies & Delusions (2001) - that features classical compositions from Joel, a first for him during his career. With over 160 million records sold worldwide, Billy Joel is one of the world's best-selling musical artists, and the fourth-best-selling solo artist in the United States.
The Sun
17-07-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Karoline Leavitt gives Donald Trump health update after President suffered ‘swelling on ankles & bruising on hands'
WHITE House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has revealed the truth behind Donald Trump's bruised hand and swelling ankles. The 79-year-old president sparked some concern when he was spotted with concealer on his hands covering up discolored skin on Wednesday. 6 6 6 Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Leavitt downplayed the bruises, saying they were the result of a chronic and harmless vein condition. She said the Commander in Chief has "chronic venous insufficiency," which explains his visible symptoms. The blood circulation issue is primarily seen in people over 70 and more than 200,000 cases are reported each year, according to Mayo Clinic. It was caught after Trump noticed "mild swelling" and underwent ultrasounds and a "comprehensive exam," Leavitt said. The press secretary explained that the "minor soft tissue irritation" was exacerbated by "frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin." She acknowledged that pictures taken of the president's concealer-covered hand captured the bruising. 'In the effort of transparency, the president wanted me to share a note from his physician with all of you today,' Leavitt told reporters. 'Importantly, there was no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease. "An echocardiogram was also performed and confirmed normal cardiac structure and function, no signs of heart failure, renal impairment, or systemic illness were identified additionally.' The health update comes after the president passed his annual physical exam with flying colors in April. Donald Trump reveals he's keeping Club World Cup trophy after gatecrashing Chelsea celebrations as Blues get replica At the time, White House physician Sean Barbabella said, "President Trump exhibits excellent cognitive and physical health and is fully fit to execute the duties of the Commander-in-Chief and Head of State." Trump's discolored hand was first noticed in February during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. The apparent bruising cropped up after they exchanged three long and firm shakes during the friendly meeting. What is chronic venous insufficiency? The White House has revealed that President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). It's a common condition diagnosed after Trump experienced swelling in his lower legs and minor bruising on his hand. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the condition is "benign and common, particularly in individuals over the age of 70." What is Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)? Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a medical condition that occurs when the veins in your legs have difficulty sending blood back up to the heart. Normally, your leg muscles act as a pump, squeezing the veins to push blood upwards. Within these veins are tiny, one-way valves that open to allow blood to flow towards the heart and then close to prevent it from flowing backward due to gravity. In CVI, these valves become weakened or damaged, or the vein walls themselves are stretched and weakened. This allows blood to leak backward and pool in the veins, particularly in the lower legs and ankles. This pooling of blood leads to increased pressure in the veins, which can cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms include: Swelling (edema) in the legs and ankles, often worsening throughout the day and improving with elevation. Aching, throbbing, cramping, or a heavy feeling in the legs. Itching or tingling sensation in the legs. Varicose veins: visibly swollen and twisted veins, often blue or purple. Skin changes: as CVI progresses, the increased pressure can lead to changes in the skin around the ankles and lower legs. Leg ulcers: in advanced stages, chronic open sores (venous stasis ulcers) can develop, typically near the ankles, which are difficult to heal. TRUMP'S HEALTH Trump, who is an avid golfer, was praised for his active lifestyle after his physical exam was published earlier this year. According to the report, the president has dropped 20 pounds since his last physical in 2020, and his cholesterol is now sitting at a cool 140. He's had cataract surgery and has minor sun damage from hitting the greens at his estate in Mar-a-Lago, Florida, the report revealed. Trump famously loves fast food and has been pictured eating his favorite, McDonald's, while sitting on Air Force One with other political leaders. He is known to enjoy steaks and Oreos, and his most beloved drink is Diet Coke. But according to Fox News' Sean Hannity, the president has found a way to enjoy his favorite offerings while maintaining his weight. 'If [Trump] has a burger now, he usually doesn't have it with a bun," the host previously said. 6 6
