What are the classic signs and symptoms of pericarditis referred to as the "5 P's"?

The classic signs and symptoms of pericarditis referred to as the "5 P's" include pleuritic pain and postural pain. Pleuritic pain is typically sharp and worsens with inspiration or coughing, and it may be relieved by sitting forward, which is a common characteristic of pericarditis. Postural pain refers to changes in the intensity of chest pain based on body position, where the pain often decreases when a patient leans forward and worsens when lying flat.

These features help differentiate pericarditis from other causes of chest pain, as they highlight the unique presentation associated with inflammation of the pericardial sac. The inclusion of pleuritic pain and postural pain as defining symptoms aligns with the clinical understanding of pericarditis and reinforces the importance of these signs in diagnosis.