Kourtni Atkins-Luster, DNP, FNP-C

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Blood pressure is determined both by the amount of blood your heart pumps and the amount of resistance to blood flow in your arteries. The more blood your heart pumps and the narrower your arteries, the higher your blood pressure. Normal blood pressure ranges from a systolic of 90-130 and a diastolic 55-80.  Know your numbers have your blood pressure checked frequently. Exercise, drink 6-8oz glasses of water daily, and follow the DASH (Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertensi...

Could gluten be triggering my asthma?
There is some evidence to suggest that gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, may be a trigger for asthma symptoms in some individuals. However, the relationship between gluten and asthma ...

How can I reduce my blood pressure without taking medication?
There are several lifestyle changes that can help to reduce high blood pressure without the use of medication:Maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of high blo...

I have atrial fibrillation. Why did my doctor prescribe anticoagulants?
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a type of arrhythmia, or irregular heart rhythm, that can increase the risk of blood clots forming in the heart. These clots can then travel to other parts of the body, s...

What are some forms of contraception if I don't want to take birth control pills?
There are several forms of contraception available for individuals who do not want to take birth control pills. Some of the most popular options include:Intrauterine device (IUD): An IUD is a small, T...

What medications can help control my glucose levels with diabetes type 2?
There are several different types of medications that can be used to help control glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes, including:Metformin: This is a medication that helps lower blood sugar ...