Final answer:
The three most common causes of small bowel obstruction are adhesions, hernias, and neoplasms. These conditions can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain and vomiting and may require treatments from observation to surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
The three most common causes of a small bowel obstruction include adhesions (scar tissue from previous surgeries), hernias which can trap portions of the bowel, and neoplasms, which are abnormal growths that can block the bowel. Examples of neoplasms include benign tumors or cancerous growths.
Small bowel obstructions can lead to several health issues, such as severe abdominal pain, vomiting, inability to pass gas or stools, and abdominal distension. Addressing a small bowel obstruction promptly is crucial to prevent complications like bowel perforation or ischemia. Treatments can range from conservative management with observation to surgical intervention, depending on the cause and severity of the obstruction.