The real question here is... why didn't acid reflux disease exist 20 years ago?

Say it with me: Once treatment for GERD is begun it usually will need to be continued indefinitely.

Eliminate alcohol, take a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar when you start to feel it (or two, it works), and for god's sake be careful before filling any prescriptions (read: drug company pocketbooks for the rest of your life).