It sounds to me like you have a problem with allergies, not necessarily infection of the sinuses known as sinusitis. In fact, most of my patients who think they have a problem with sinusitis actually have either allergies or a common cold due to a virus. Neither of these illnesses requires treatment with an antibiotic.

Infection involving the sinuses is more serious and may indeed require antibiotics. Signs and symptoms of sinus infection include sinus pressure, possibly headache, fever and colored discharge from the nose. Tenderness to pressure over the sinuses may also be present.

Since you have a problem with recurrent upper respiratory symptoms, you should probably see your doctor. You may only need a nonsedating (doesn’t make you sleepy) antihistamine. However, true infection of the sinuses, whether acute or chronic, probably warrants antibiotic therapy and close follow-up.

I’m almost 13 and haven’t had my first period. Occasionally, I have a clear discharge and think it’s going to happen, but it hasn’t. Should I be worried?

Most girls start their periods or begin menstruating between the ages of 8 and 16; however, it isn’t unusual to start even later, particularly if you’re lean and athletic. Through the years, it has been my observation that girls are maturing earlier, both physically and perhaps emotionally.

Since you’ve experienced a clear discharge, it’s likely that you may start your menstrual cycle soon. During the first year or two of your cycle, it’s also normal to experience some cramping and irregularity. Mild cramping can usually be controlled with either low dose of ibuprofen or naproxen, which are available without a prescription.

I have a problem with acne, but my breakouts usually occur on my upper back and chest. What’s going on here?

A large percentage of questions I’ve received through the years deal with the problem of acne. Acne develops in girls your age due to the hormonal changes of puberty. Puberty causes many physical changes, including an increase in production of sebum (oil) from your sebaceous glands. The sebum can clog the gland and cause open comedones (blackheads) or raised bumps or papules known as closed comedones (whiteheads).

Both of these can easily become infected, causing what’s known as a pimple or zit. These tend to develop on the face but also on the back, chest and upper arms. Acne can cause embarrassment and social withdrawal, particularly when it’s more severe. Stress may cause acne, but it’s now widely accepted that food is not a major factor.

My advice is simple. Wash the involved areas at least twice daily with a gentle soap. Also avoid picking, since this may spread infection and can lead to permanent scarring. There are several nonprescription remedies available. One of the most effective over-the-counter remedies is Benzyl peroxide. If your acne fails to respond to this type of management, you may want to consult a cosmetologist or see your doctor.

There are multiple prescription-only remedies with varying levels of success, and treatment needs to be individualized. More expensive but effective treatments include microdermabrasion and newer laser therapies. These therapies should be done only by a qualified professional.