expert type icon EXPERT

Melissa Rivera Santiago

Family Practitioner

Dr. Melissa Rivera Santiago is a family practitioner practicing in SAN JUAN, PR. Dr. Rivera Santiago specializes in comprehensive health care for people of all ages. In addition to diagnosing and treating illnesses, family practitioners also put focus on preventative care with routine checkups, tests and personalized coaching on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Rivera Santiago possesses immense general knowledge on maintaining health and today, family practitioners provide more care for the underserved and rural populations than any other medical specialty.
Melissa Rivera Santiago
  • SAN JUAN, PR
  • University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine
  • Accepting new patients

Can pneumonia cause shortness of breath?

Yes it definitely will. Depending the cause of pneumonia it will be the treatment. Viral causes like COVID or influenza don’t need antibiotics. If mycoplasma or any other bacterial READ MORE
Yes it definitely will. Depending the cause of pneumonia it will be the treatment.
Viral causes like COVID or influenza don’t need antibiotics. If mycoplasma or any other bacterial infection deserve antibiotic treatment if patients are symptomatic. Nutrition is important in view of cough with sputum and shortness of breath don’t consume lactose products like milk, ice cream or cheese. Proper hydration and symptomatic relief

What helps with obesity?

Greetings, thank you for your question. This is a sensitive topic in view of so much misinformation and promotion of several weight loss products. The most important detail in READ MORE
Greetings, thank you for your question. This is a sensitive topic in view of so much misinformation and promotion of several weight loss products.
The most important detail in view of managing obesity is the real cause behind the weight gain.
Most patients suffer metabolic/ hormonal problems like in the case of thyroid disorders or in view of diabetes, etc…
If poor nutrition and lack of physical activity will contribute immensely to obesity.
Always seek consult with your primary physician with proper lab work to determine any major causes.


Which treatment is effective for autism?

Hi thanks for your question, Mainly behavioral therapy. But in some cases based on the severity of condition might also need medications. The importance is to provide all possible READ MORE
Hi thanks for your question,

Mainly behavioral therapy. But in some cases based on the severity of condition might also need medications.
The importance is to provide all possible behavioral, cognitive and psychological therapy including building skills.
Autistics are fascinating individuals, highly characterized by artistic abilities and good in sports.

Bacterial infections

Yes there could be different strains of bacteria

What doctor should I see for my daughter's sleep issues?

Well it depends on the issue regarding of th sleep issues

Fell on my knee & have been vomiting since

Hi thanks for your question. This is a complex case. The main reason for your symptoms may include electrolyte imbalance. Yes with complications inyour history you should follow READ MORE
Hi thanks for your question.

This is a complex case. The main reason for your symptoms may include electrolyte imbalance. Yes with complications inyour history you should follow up to the nearest ER and your nephrologist as it could worsen

What drugs should I take after heart stent surgery?

Hi, Thanks for your question… the amount of medication will vary according to the reason for why you need a stent placed. Most cases due to cardiovascular obstruction, mainly READ MORE
Hi,

Thanks for your question… the amount of medication will vary according to the reason for why you need a stent placed. Most cases due to cardiovascular obstruction, mainly fat deposits, platelets or clots.
In general, post stent placement will require medications to improve blood flow: aspirin low dose with anti platelet like plavix, and /or anticoagulant tx.
Also depends on the type of stent as some include anticoagulants. Each case is individual. It’s all based on history.

Preventive measures should include avoid trauma / falls given that these medications thin blood but increase bleeding like bruising, nosebleeds and Gastrointestinal bleeding. Sounds scary but it’s not. For Gastric prevention take Pepcid.
Flu with your primary care and of course with Cardiologist.

What can be the cause of headaches in kids?

Hi, thank you for your question. Headaches in general has many causes. In the case of children, most commonly: Sinus pressure, with nasal congestion. Viral illness with cough, READ MORE
Hi, thank you for your question. Headaches in general has many causes. In the case of children, most commonly: Sinus pressure, with nasal congestion. Viral illness with cough, allergies, fever. Dehydration. But most commonly now a days: - Diet: high sugar meals/snacks, excess intake of soda and high fructose juices. - Excess time exposure to Cellphones, TV, computer, especially up close to eyes. - stress /anxiety - need of eyeglasses for which is important an eye exam Important to f/u with Pediatrician.

Can I give my child medication for seasonal allergies?

Greetings Yes u sure may give children allergy medications as long as they are 2 yr old and older. Especially in the case of benadryl, because its too drowsy in younger children. READ MORE
Greetings Yes u sure may give children allergy medications as long as they are 2 yr old and older. Especially in the case of benadryl, because its too drowsy in younger children. Best meds loratadine, Zyrtec. Although always best to identify reason for allergies, and follow up with pediatrician.

Can blood pressure medicines cause constipation?

Greetings, Thank you for your question. It all depends on which medication you are using for blood pressure control. blood pressure medications are designed to relax blood vessels READ MORE
Greetings, Thank you for your question. It all depends on which medication you are using for blood pressure control. blood pressure medications are designed to relax blood vessels in order to relief the strain to your heart. Unfortunately some medications may also decrease the strain to your intestinal tract causing transit to slow down which is felt as constipation. The best solution for constipation is: Proper hydration Eat enough amount of fiber Avoid or decrease stress Avoid eating fatty or hard to chew meals.