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 COPD. What can help me breathe better?
Treatment for COPD can help improve breathing and slow the progression of the disease. Some treatments include:bronchodilators, which are medications that relax the muscles around the airways to help ...

I have high cholesterol. When should I consider starting a statin?
High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Your healthcare provider will consider several factors when deciding whether or not to prescribe a statin to lower your cholestero...

What tests can determine if my pelvic pain is due to endometriosis or something else?
There are several tests that can be used to diagnose endometriosis, a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it. The most common tests include:Pelvic exam: During a pelvic e...

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...

Why are so many children taking ADHD medications?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects about 5-10% of children and adolescents. The symptoms of ADHD include difficulty paying attention, impulsi...