play hell with something

play (merry) hell with (someone or something)

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
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

play hell with something

or

play merry hell with something

mainly BRITISH
If one thing plays hell with another or plays merry hell with another, the first thing has a bad effect on the second one or causes great confusion. Divorce and remarriage play hell with property and inheritance law. Slugs play merry hell with growing plants.
See also: hell, play, something
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.

play (merry) ˈhell with somebody/something

(British English, informal) disturb, upset or trouble somebody/something very much: These storms play merry hell with our TV reception.
See also: hell, play, somebody, something
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • play (merry) hell with (someone or something)
  • play hell
  • play hell with
  • play hell with somebody/something
  • play hell with someone/something
  • raise hell
  • a/one hell of a...
  • hell and high water
  • be hell on
  • be hell on (one)