Intestinal Problems can be quite frustrating- recurrent aphthous ulcers

What type of reaction have you gotten when you told someone you have GERD or acid reflux disease? Some of you have doubtless had someone, who may suffer from heartburn once a year, try to tell you they understand what you are experiencing. Or worse still, having someone tell you it's no big deal, pop an antacid and you'll be fine.

Unfortunately, having a flare up with our GERD isn't just annoying. It can have a big impact on our lives. "Blakelylaw" describes it well:

"Those at a distance who are not familiar with the disease have no idea how debilitating a major attack can be and that it can take a few days for your body to recuperate afterwards & get back to normal."

There are many aspects about living with GERD that non-sufferers don't understand. We often have to educate those around us.

So, what do you wish others knew about living with GERD. You can either leave your thoughts by clicking on the Comments link at the end of this post, or you can submit your reply here.

Warm weather, the open road, and the urge to get out of town - yes, vacation season is upon us. Traveling has many joys, but it can also be tough, particularly for people with heartburn. Unusual foods, eating on the run, and the overindulgence that often goes hand in hand with being on vacation can all contribute to a flare up of acid reflux disease. Combine that with the stress of jet lag and sleeping in unfamiliar surroundings, and you've got a recipe for putting the burn back into heartburn. However, by taking a few precautions when you travel, you can have the vacation you dreamed of and leave your heartburn symptoms behind.