play hell with someone/something

play (merry) hell with (someone or something)

informal To cause issues or disruptions for someone or something. This wonky Internet signal is playing merry hell with my site edits right now.

See also: hell, play

play hell with someone/something

and play the devil with someone/something

tv. to cause difficulty for someone or something. You know that this cake is going to play hell with my diet. Your driving is playing the devil with my upset stomach.

See also: hell, play, someone, something