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Informational

CATEGORY

12/03/2025

POSTED

No Judgment. No Long Waits. Just Answers.

Let’s be real: talking about STI testing can feel awkward. But getting tested? That’s one of the smartest things you can do for your health — and it doesn’t have to be complicated.

At Night Watch Urgent Care Stone Ridge, we make it easy, fast, and completely confidential.

Why Testing Matters

Many STIs don’t come with obvious symptoms — which means you could have one and not even know it. Left untreated, infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can lead to serious health issues, including infertility, chronic pain, and increased risk of other infections.

The good news? Most STIs are highly treatable when caught early. Testing is the first step.

Who Should Get Tested?

If any of these apply to you, it’s time to get checked:

→ You’re sexually active with a new partner

→ You’ve had unprotected sex

→ You or a partner have multiple partners

→ You’re experiencing symptoms like unusual discharge, sores, or pain

→ You just want peace of mind — and that’s reason enough

What We Test For

Our on-site lab can screen for the most common sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, and herpes. Testing is quick — often just a simple urine sample or blood draw — and results come back fast.

What to Expect

Walk in or book online. You’ll be seen by a provider in a private setting — no awkward waiting rooms, no unnecessary questions. If your results come back positive, we’ll talk through your treatment options right away. Most infections can be cleared with a simple course of medication.

Your visit. Your health. Your business.

Take Control of Your Health

Getting tested isn’t something to stress about — it’s something to feel good about. You’re taking charge, staying informed, and protecting yourself and the people you care about.

No referrals. No judgment. Just quality care when you need it.

Informational

CATEGORY

12/01/2025

POSTED

Ouch! Is It a Strain or a Sprain? Here’s How to Tell

Your kid wiped out at practice. You tweaked something at the gym. Now someone in your house is hobbling around — and you’re wondering if it’s serious.

Strain? Sprain? Is there even a difference?

There is — and knowing it helps you heal faster.

The 30-Second Breakdown

Sprain = ligament injury. Ligaments connect bone to bone. Sprains happen at joints — ankles, wrists, knees. Rolled your ankle? Classic sprain.

Strain = muscle or tendon injury. Tendons connect muscle to bone. Strains love the back, hamstrings, and shoulders — usually from lifting, pulling, or pushing your limits.

When to Come In

If there’s major swelling, bruising, or you can’t bear weight — don’t tough it out. A severe sprain can look and feel exactly like a fracture. And ignoring it? That’s how a weekend injury becomes a long-term problem.

At Night Watch Stone Ridge, we see the whole family — kids and adults — and we’ve got X-rays on-site. No ER. No runaround. Just answers to get you back to doing what you love — minus the limp.

Emotional Wellness

CATEGORY

11/26/2025

POSTED

Wellness Starts with How You Feel

Mental health matters—for your child, for your teen, and for you. At Night Watch Urgent Care in Stone Ridge, we’re proud to offer Emotional Wellness Visits for the whole family. Because feeling good on the inside is just as important as feeling good on the outside.

What Is an Emotional Wellness Visit?

Think of it as a check-up for the mind. Whether your child is struggling with self-esteem, your teenager seems withdrawn, or you’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands—we’re here to listen, assess, and help you take the next step toward feeling better.

Our pediatric emotional wellness pathway uses the Enrichly Self-Esteem Assessment to identify concerns early. We screen for confidence issues, anxiety, and depression in a safe, judgment-free environment.

Stress, anxiety, and mood changes don’t have an age limit. We offer wellness screenings and can connect you with trusted mental health resources in the Stone Ridge and Aldie area to support your journey.

What to Expect

  1. Quick Screening: Complete a brief assessment (tablet or paper)
  2. Compassionate Conversation: Our provider asks about mood, stress, relationships, and daily life
  3. Personalized Plan: Receive a “Confidence Builder Plan” or wellness goals tailored to you
  4. Follow-Up Support: Schedule a 4-week check-in to track progress

Trusted Local Partners

When you or your child needs more specialized support, we connect you with local providers as needed.

Why It Matters

Early intervention changes lives. Catching a confidence struggle in a 10-year-old or addressing burnout in a busy parent can prevent bigger challenges down the road. You don’t need a crisis to ask for help—just a willingness to prioritize your wellbeing.

Your feelings are valid. Your mental health matters.

Informational

CATEGORY

11/24/2025

POSTED

ER or Urgent Care?

Fever at 9 PM. A twisted ankle on your evening run. That cough that just won’t quit. When illness or injury strikes, every minute in a waiting room feels like an hour—and every dollar spent on an unnecessary ER bill stings.

What if there was a faster, smarter, more affordable option? There is. Night Watch Urgent Care in Stone Ridge is here to get you and your family the care you need—without the wait, without the hassle, and without breaking the bank.

When the ER is the Right Call

Emergency rooms are built for life-threatening situations. If you or a loved one experiences any of the following, call 911 or head to the nearest ER immediately:

  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Signs of stroke (facial drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech)
  • Severe bleeding that won’t stop
  • Head injuries with loss of consciousness
  • Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
  • Broken bones with visible deformity
  • Seizures
  • High fever in infants under 3 months
  • Sudden, severe abdominal pain

Skip the ER Wait—Visit Urgent Care Instead

For everything else that needs prompt attention but isn’t life-threatening, urgent care is your best bet. At Night Watch in Stone Ridge, our providers treat:

  • Fevers, flu, coughs, and cold symptoms
  • Ear infections, sore throats, and sinus infections
  • Minor cuts, burns, and lacerations needing stitches
  • Sprains, strains, and minor fractures
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Rashes, mild allergic reactions, and bug bites
  • Pink eye and eye irritations
  • Vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration
  • COVID-19, strep, and flu testing

Why Stone Ridge Families Trust Night Watch

Located right in the heart of your community at Village Center Plaza, Night Watch Urgent Care was founded by a pediatrician who understands that families need accessible, quality care—without the hassle.

  • Minutes, Not Hours: Why wait 3+ hours in an ER when most of our patients are seen in under 30 minutes?
  • Save Hundreds: Urgent care visits typically cost $150-$300 compared to $1,000+ at the ER.
  • Everything On-Site: X-rays, lab work, and rapid testing—get answers and treatment in one visit.
  • Open Late & Weekends: We’re here 10 AM – 10 PM weekdays and 10 AM – 7 PM weekends.
  • Pediatric Specialists: Our providers have specialized training in pediatric care—perfect for Loudoun County’s growing families.

Visit Us in Stone Ridge

Next time your family needs care after hours, remember: if it’s not a life-threatening emergency, skip the ER and come see us. Reserve your spot online, call ahead, or just walk in.

Informational

CATEGORY

11/19/2025

POSTED

Concussion Concerns: What Everyone Should Know

Head injuries can happen to anyone—whether it’s a child on the playground, a teen athlete, or an adult slipping on ice. Here’s what Stone Ridge families need to know about recognizing and managing concussions.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. While most aren’t life-threatening, they require proper care. Important: You don’t have to lose consciousness to have a concussion—most people don’t.

Recognizing the Signs

Symptoms can appear immediately or develop over hours or days. Watch for:

  • Headache or pressure in the head
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness or balance problems
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Confusion or feeling “foggy”
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Irritability or mood changes
  • Changes in sleep patterns

In young children: Excessive crying, changes in eating or sleeping, loss of interest in activities, or appearing dazed.

When to Seek Immediate Emergency Care

Go to the ER right away for:

  • Loss of consciousness over one minute
  • Severe or worsening headache
  • Repeated vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Weakness or difficulty walking
  • Slurred speech
  • Unequal pupils
  • Increasing confusion or cannot be awakened

When to Visit Night Watch Stone Ridge

Visit us if you or your child has a head injury with any concussion symptoms, or if you’re uncertain about severity. We’ll perform a thorough assessment, provide a diagnosis, and create a recovery plan. When it comes to head injuries, it’s always better to be cautious.

Recovery Guidelines

Most people recover within 1-2 weeks with proper rest. The key is gradual return to activities.

Initial rest: No sports, limited work/school tasks, reduced screen time, and quiet activities only.

Step-by-step return:

  1. Light activities at home
  2. Return to school/work (with modifications if needed)
  3. Light physical activity
  4. Non-contact practice or exercise
  5. Full activities with medical clearance

Critical rule: If symptoms return at any step, go back to resting. Never return to sports or high-risk activities the same day as the injury.

Age-Specific Considerations

Children and teens: Young brains take longer to heal and are at higher risk for complications if they return to activities too soon.

Older adults (65+): Should be especially cautious due to higher risk for complications and potential medication interactions.

All athletes: Must be symptom-free and receive medical clearance before returning to contact sports.

The Bottom Line

Concussions affect people of all ages and should always be taken seriously. Don’t hesitate to seek evaluation after a head injury—early recognition and proper recovery are crucial for long-term health.

Night Watch Stone Ridge is here for your whole family with walk-ins welcome. No appointment necessary for concussion evaluations.

Safety Tips

CATEGORY

11/17/2025

POSTED

Stone Ridge Families Here is Your Guide to Staying Healthy During Flu Season

Flu season affects everyone—from toddlers to grandparents. The good news? A few simple steps can help protect your whole family. Here’s what you need to know.

Get Your Flu Vaccine

Vaccination is your best defense against the flu. Everyone 6 months and older should get an annual flu shot, ideally in early fall. The vaccine takes about two weeks to become fully effective, so plan ahead before flu activity peaks in your community.

Note: Children getting their first flu shot may need two doses spaced four weeks apart.

Wash Your Hands Frequently

Your hands come into contact with countless surfaces throughout the day. Wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after being in public spaces. For kids, singing a favorite song helps them time it right.

Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol works in a pinch when soap and water aren’t available.

Practice Proper Cough and Sneeze Etiquette

Encourage everyone in your household to cough or sneeze into their elbow rather than their hands. This simple habit significantly reduces the spread of germs. Make it a family practice—consistency is key, especially with children.

Stay Home When You’re Sick

We understand work and school obligations can be demanding, but staying home when you’re ill helps prevent spreading the virus to others. Both adults and children should remain home until they’re fever-free for 24 hours without medication.

Rest is essential for recovery, and your colleagues and classmates will appreciate your consideration.

Support Your Immune System

A healthy lifestyle strengthens your body’s natural defenses. Focus on adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, regular hydration, and physical activity. These fundamentals help people of all ages fight off infections more effectively.

Clean High-Touch Surfaces

Regularly disinfect frequently touched items like doorknobs, light switches, phones, keyboards, remote controls, and shared toys. Consistent cleaning of these hotspots during flu season makes a meaningful difference.

When to Visit Urgent Care

Most people recover from the flu at home with rest and fluids. However, seek medical attention if you or your child experiences:

  • Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
  • High fever over 104°F or fever lasting more than 3-4 days
  • Signs of severe dehydration (dizziness, very dark urine, minimal tears in children)
  • Symptoms that improve then suddenly worsen
  • Chest pain or persistent confusion

Young children (under 5) and older adults may benefit from antiviral medication when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.

The Bottom Line

Flu season is predictable, but being prepared makes all the difference. Get vaccinated, practice good hygiene, stay home when sick, and maintain healthy habits. These straightforward steps work.

If you do become ill despite preventive measures, remember that rest, hydration, and time are your best allies. Our Stone Ridge team is here when you need us—no appointment necessary.

Pediatric Mental Health

CATEGORY

7/23/2025

POSTED

Building Resilient Kids in Aldie (Stone Ridge) with Enrichly at Night Watch Pediatric Urgent Care

Families in Aldie and Stone Ridge, VA, now have access to cutting-edge mental health screening through Night Watch Pediatric Urgent Care. We proudly offer Enrichly self-esteem assessments to help children develop confidence, emotional strength, and self-awareness.

Our pediatric urgent care center in Stone Ridge believes in catching emotional concerns before they grow into crises. We use Enrichly to:

· Identify early warning signs of low self-esteem or stress

· Track personal development over time

· Offer personalized advice and care plans for each child

What Makes Our Approach Unique?

Children don’t always express their internal struggles. By proactively screening with Enrichly, we ensure:

· Emotional check-ins during regular or urgent care visits

· A focus on resilience-building for all children, not just those in crisis

· Peace of mind for parents in Aldie and Stone Ridge

We invite families to make mental health a regular part of pediatric care. Our compassionate team is here to support your child’s growth from the inside out.

Visit our Aldie (Stone Ridge) location today to start your child’s emotional wellness journey.

Safety Tips

CATEGORY

7/10/2025

POSTED

Aldie Urgent Care Shares Summer Heat Safety Tips for the Whole Family

Keep your family safe in Aldie’s summer heat! Night Watch Urgent Care sees kids & adults — here’s how to prevent heat exhaustion & dehydration.

From backyard BBQs to soccer at Brambleton parks, Aldie summers keep families busy. Make sure you know how to prevent heat exhaustion and when IV fluids may help!

Tips:

√ Stay hydrated during outdoor sports and South Riding Center pool days

√ Wear light clothes and hats

√ Use insect repellent and check for ticks

√ Know signs of heat exhaustion: headache, dizziness, confusion

√ Keep cold water bottles in the car for day trips

When to Visit Us: We care for kids and adults — come in for dehydration, heat exhaustion, or when oral fluids aren’t enough. IV hydration therapy available for the whole family.

Visit Night Watch Urgent Care in Aldie, VA — your urgent care for kids & adults, including IV fluids.

Informational

CATEGORY

6/27/2025

POSTED

New Services

At Night Watch Pediatrics & Urgent Care in Aldie, VA, we’re proud to expand our offerings to better support our community’s growing needs.

In addition to comprehensive pediatric and urgent care, we now offer:

In-House STD Testing – Our Aldie clinic now provides confidential, walk-in STD panel testing for teens and adults—right in our lab, with faster results and no need for an outside lab order.

IV Hydration Therapy – From dehydration due to illness to post-sport recovery, our medical-grade IV therapy is available for patients of all ages.

Emotional Wellness Visits – In collaboration with Enrichly, we offer preventative mental health support through self-esteem coaching and emotional check-ins. These visits are designed to build resilience and confidence in children and teens.

Concussion Management – Whether from sports or accidents, we now offer concussion evaluation and management for safe return-to-play and peace of mind.

Visit us in Aldie, VA—your trusted source for after-hours pediatric care and much more. Walk in 7 days a week or learn more online.