What is the medical term for inflammation of the stomach lining?

Gastritis is the medical term that specifically refers to inflammation of the stomach lining. This condition can arise from various causes, including infection, prolonged use of certain medications (like NSAIDs), alcohol consumption, or autoimmune diseases. Symptoms of gastritis typically include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion.

Gastroenteritis, on the other hand, involves inflammation of both the stomach and the intestines, usually due to infection, and includes symptoms like diarrhea. A peptic ulcer refers to sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or the first part of the intestine (the duodenum), usually associated with the effects of stomach acid. Esophagitis is the inflammation of the esophagus, often due to acid reflux or infection. Thus, gastritis is the most appropriate term for inflammation confined to the stomach lining.