What is a main characteristic of the chest pain associated with pericarditis?

The chest pain associated with pericarditis is characterized by being relieved when the patient leans forward. This relief is due to the positional nature of the pain, which is often exacerbated by various positions that increase pressure on the pericardium, the fibrous sac surrounding the heart. Leaning forward may reduce the friction and pressure on the inflamed pericardium, leading to decreased pain.

In contrast, the nature of the pain tends to be pleuritic and sharp, often worsening with inspiration or when lying flat, which is not characteristic of the pain being relieved. Additionally, while fever can accompany pericarditis, it is not a defining characteristic of the chest pain itself but rather a related symptom indicating inflammation or infection. Thus, the primary distinguishing feature of the chest pain is the relief achieved by leaning forward.