Hello, I can understand your problem since I have the same problem. It depends on the extent of damage to Lower esophageal spincter ,You have to follow strict diet for years if the damage is severe. You can only assess the regression on observing the symptoms closely . If symptoms are subsiding then your doing good . But you shouldn't start having all spicy foods soon after symptoms relieve . It's a slow process but if you put honest effort ,you will get rid of GERD one day.