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 asthma. Should I have an asthma action plan?
It's important for those with asthma to have an asthma action plan.An asthma action plan is a written document that outlines specific steps for managing asthma symptoms and preventing asthma attac...

I snore regularly. Should I be worried about sleep apnea?
Snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea, a serious sleep disorder that causes a person to stop breathing for short periods of time during sleep. People with sleep apnea often snore loudly and frequ...

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 is the best non-prescription treatments for head lice?
Over-the-counter (OTC) treatments for head lice include shampoos and lotions that contain medications such as pyrethrins or permethrin. These medications work by paralyzing the lice and killing them.S...

What types of pollen trigger allergies?
Pollen is a fine powder that is released by trees, grasses, and weeds during the spring, summer, and fall. When these pollens come into contact with the eyes, nose, and lungs of people who are sensiti...