Can a pulmonary embolism cause heart block?

Yes, a pulmonary embolism can potentially cause heart block, particularly if it leads to significant strain on the right side of the heart or results in acute right heart failure. This strain can disrupt normal electrical conduction pathways, potentially leading to various types of heart block. Additionally, severe hypoxia or changes in hemodynamics due to the embolism may also contribute to arrhythmias or conduction abnormalities. However, heart block is not a common direct consequence of pulmonary embolism.