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...

How is atopic dermatitis different from eczema?
Atopic dermatitis and eczema are often used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same thing. Atopic dermatitis is a type of eczema.Eczema is a general term that refers to a group of condition...

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 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...

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 treatment options for an enlarged prostate?
An enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition that affects many men as they age. Treatment options for an enlarged prostate will depend on the severity ...