10 Problems Only Hay Fever Sufferers Will Understand

9. People Think You're Crying

Immortalised by Tracy Beaker, who often defended her tough-girl image by pretending to have hay fever whenever she got a little bit emotional, the classic confusion between hay fever tears and real crying continues to haunt the pollen-sensitive every summer. Friends will constantly ask if you're okay when they glance at your devil-red eyes and permanently pained facial expression, before rolling their eyes sceptically when you assure them your allergies are playing up. You'll even become paranoid enough to justify your appearance to corner shop staff, restaurant waiters and the postman.