Hay fever is a colloquial term for various kinds of allergies that people experience in the summer months. The symptoms of hay fever arise during the summer because there is more pollen in the air from flowering crops, trees and grass. Hay fever is thought to be a heritable trait, and around one in 11 people suffer from the affliction. It causes symptoms rather similar to colds or influenza, and almost total apathy from friends and family.

Apart from the physical discomfort (horrible sneezing fits, inflamed nose and eye membranes and wheezing), the most annoying thing about hay fever is the amount of money you have to spend on lotions and potions to ease the damn thing. Nasal sprays don't grow on trees, and there is a myriad of pills and substances one can take to try and stop the allergies. However, all cost a large wad of cash.

The best cure for hay fever - don't go outside, lie on your bed with a freezing cold wet flannel over your face and relax. People will think you are insane, but you'll certainly sneeze less.