 [ Symptoms ] what else can i do to improve my health with ulcerative colitis [ Disease ] if you smoke set a goal to stop studies show that smoking exacerbates the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease especially crohn is smoking also adds to cancer risk finding ways to alleviate stress may also help you control your symptoms stress does not cause inflammatory bowel disease but it can make your symptoms feel worse and may trigger flare ups many patients find that moderate exercise relaxation techniques or soaking in a warmth bath are helpful