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...

I have long COVID. Should I be concerned about getting another COVID vaccine?
Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), refers to the persistence of symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, brain fog, and muscle pain, among others, afte...

Is there a treatment for food allergy?
The treatment for food allergies is to strictly avoid the allergenic food, and in case of accidental exposure, the use of rescue medications such as antihistamines and epinephrine (injectable) in the ...

What are new ways to monitor my glucose levels with diabetes?
There are several new ways to monitor glucose levels for people with diabetes, including:Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM) - These devices measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid (the fluid b...

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...

When should I consider taking a medication for osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes the bones to become brittle and fragile, increasing the risk of fractures. Medications for osteoporosis are typically recommended when a person is at high risk ...