I got deathly ill when I was 14, so bad I even got last rights and everything. The doctors found it to be acid reflux/gerd (the whole story is on the all topic forum). I had stomach problems when I was younger. I am 17 now and am wondering why I have this. Not only why I have it, but why does it make me so deathly ill? the comercials paint it as simply hearburn, but its so much more than that. Are there causes for this disease?

Hi, there. I'm not sure exactly what causes GERD/reflux, but usually the culprit is a malfunction of the LES (lower esophageal sphincter). At least that was my problem, which can only be corrected via surgery. What causes malfunction of the LES? Who knows - could be born with it, could be related to hiatal hernia, etc. Things like smoking, caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, peppermint, "gassy" foods, can also make it worse. Heartburn is no simple condition for some people - sometimes you can feel like you want to die. Find a good caring doctor and get the help you need - whether it's medication or surgery.

Good luck,
Katie G