TMZ.com is reporting that American Idol finalist David Cook’s brother is ill with cancer — and this is likely contributing to David Cook’s stress level and subsequent visit to the hospital last night.

David Cook was taken to the hospital for high blood pressure and heart palpitations following last night’s performance. He already has high blood pressure, but the stress of his ill brother may be too much to handle with the weekly stress of American Idol.

David Cook’s brother is reportedly battling cancer and had a setback last week.

Well wishes going out to David Cook and his family…