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.
Calf pain can be caused by a strain or tear in the muscles due to injury or overuse. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, any muscle in the calf or leg can become dehydrated or be affected by low levels of potassium, sodium, calcium or magnesium in the bloodstream and become painful.onsiderations. Some leg and calf pain can indicate a serious condition called peripheral artery disease, or PAD. These symptoms are severe muscle cramping in the hips, thighs or calves. PAD can be caused by a buildup of plaque in the blood vessels which lessens circulation to the legs.