When I was seeing doctors for stomach issues years ago, I remember being told to avoid spicy food among other things. However, population studies don't show a higher rate of GERD/stomach ulcers for groups who report eating spicier food. I think it just irritates damage that is already there that you might not have noticed.

For me, it turned out I was reacting to something in my well water and a bit after switching to bottled water, I could go back to chocolate/coffee/alcohol/spicy food with no problems.