Gnu

I have a life time history of hive like reactions to medications. It may not be the active ingredients (the actual medicine) but the excipients (additives in the pill to help the body absorb the meds).

Beta blockers and ace inhibitors (most common BP controlling meds) can cause edema. Vascular disease itself can cause edema and can cause hives. Edema is a side effect, the doctors say you have to live with if you want to control the blood pressure.

There are things you can do to control the edema. Watch sodium intake (it is everywhere especially processed sauces and soups, breads, even milk).   Take enough water and potassium and/or magnesium (be careful, it is a fine balance getting the fluid and tissue salts correct). Elevate the feet above the heart several times a day. Very important that you are lying flat on your back and that there is only a slight bend in the hips when you elevate feet. Use compression socks. They really work and it feels wonderful when you remove them. Not that they are uncomfortable. Just a lovely feeling of freedom for your legs and feet at the end of the day.