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 ...

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 ...

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 some tips for treating dry skin?
Dry skin can be caused by a variety of factors, such as cold weather, low humidity, harsh soaps, and certain medical conditions. Here are some tips for treating dry skin:Moisturize: Moisturizing is th...

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 ...