Is chronic bronchitis progressive? does it get worse or go away?

Progressive : COPD tends to be progressive. But inhaled & oral meds, along with smoking cessation, & supplemental oxygen if needed, can significantly slow the progress. Other ills, like heart disease, make it worse. End-stage sign is acute flare up episodes ("exacerbations") requiring more frequent hospital stays. That's the time to focus on life quality over life prolonging care (hospice). Hope that helps.