Peripheral artery disease (P.A.D.) is a disease in which plaque builds up in the arteries that carry blood to your head, organs, and limbs. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, fibrous tissue, and other substances in the blood.
Painless swelling may affect both legs and may include the calves or even the thighs. The effect of gravity makes the swelling most noticeable in the lower part of the body. Foot, leg, and ankle swelling is common when the person also: Is overweight.
Why do pregnant women swell. During pregnancy, the extra fluid in the body can cause swelling in the ankles, feet, hands, legs, and face. ChaCha. [ Source: http://www.chacha.com/question/why-do-pregnant-women-swell ]