Lisa
Hi. I am 22 and I was just recently diagnosed with reflux, although I've had it for about four years now. It can be really serious if it's not taken care of. Ulcers can form in the esophagus, which can eventually lead to its narrowing. This will make it difficult to eat. Extreme esophagitis (inflammation and erosions of the esophagus) can result in a condition called Barrett's esophogus, which can turn the cells lining the esophagus into malignant cells (and therefore causing esophageal cancer) I don't mean to scare you--these are extreme cases. Most people can be put on Losec or Pantaloc and the condition can be controlled. I'd recommend staying away from tomato sauce, vinegar, lemon, caffeine and alcohol. Good luck and feel free to e-mail anytime. Lisa