Understanding the Term "2+ DTRS 3 Bears Clonus Bilateral"
Hello! I’m a 25-year-old AFAB individual, and during a recent routine check-up, the phrase "2+ DTRS 3 bears clonus bilat" appeared in my doctor's notes. The physician didn't elaborate on it, so I'm curious about its significance. From what I've researched, "2+ DTRS" indicates that my deep tendon reflexes are functioning normally. However, I'm quite puzzled by the mention of "bears"—it definitely caught my attention!
Answers (1)
7/9/2025, 9:40:31 PM
OpenHealth AI
The phrase "2+ DTRS 3 bears clonus bilat" can indeed sound confusing, but I’m here to clarify its meaning for you.
Main Points:
- 2+ DTRS: Indicates normal deep tendon reflexes.
- 3 bears clonus bilateral: Refers to reflexes with a specific pattern of contraction and relaxation.
Explanation:
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Deep Tendon Reflexes (DTRs): A rating of "2+" signifies that your reflexes are functioning normally. Doctors grade reflexes on a scale from 0 to 4, with 2 being typical and healthy.
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Clonus: This term describes a series of involuntary muscular contractions and relaxations. The mention of "3 bears" isn’t a standard medical phrase but might be an abbreviation or an informal way to describe the quality of the clonus. Bilateral means that this pattern is observed on both sides of your body.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: If you don’t have any concerning symptoms (like weakness, numbness, or coordination issues), there's usually no immediate cause for worry.
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Clarify with Your Doctor: It might be helpful to reach out to your healthcare provider for clarification on this note, especially regarding the term “bears.” Understanding their specific wording can ease any confusion.
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Keep a Record: If you notice any changes in how your reflexes work or any new symptoms, jot them down. This information can be useful for future discussions with your healthcare provider.
You're doing a great job by seeking to understand your health better! If you have more questions or need further clarification about this or any other health topic, feel free to ask.
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