Pasta food poisoning symptoms: what to know

Foodborne illness can occur when cooked pasta is contaminated or left at an unsafe temperature, allowing germs or toxins to build up. Symptoms may begin suddenly, and the pattern varies with the cause. Read about [Food Poisoning](/conditions/food-poisoning/), [Nausea](/symptoms/nausea/), [Vomiting](/symptoms/vomiting/), [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/), [Abdominal Pain](/symptoms/abdominal-pain/) and [Fever](/symptoms/fever/).

Vomiting and loose stools can remove water and salts faster than you replace them. Thirst, a dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness or passing urine less often can signal dehydration. Young children, older adults and people with other illnesses may become unwell more quickly.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink, especially after vomiting. [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) helps replace fluid and electrolytes. Rest, eat small bland meals when able, and avoid alcohol and foods that worsen symptoms. Wash hands with soap and water and do not prepare food for others while ill.

Seek urgent care for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, severe or worsening abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, repeated vomiting that prevents drinking, or signs of significant dehydration. Contact a clinician if symptoms are persistent, fever is concerning, or you have a condition that increases dehydration risk. [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/) may be used when drinking is not enough.

Ask what fluid plan suits you, whether medicines are appropriate, and which warning signs should prompt reassessment. Mention when symptoms began, what you ate, how often you have vomited or passed stool, and whether anyone else became ill.