COPD prognosis typically involves a worsening of symptoms over time. However, its progression can be greatly slowed and lessened if diagnosed early and treated appropriately. When left untreated, the COPD prognosis can include not only a worsening of common symptoms such as increased mucus production and difficulty breathing, but also damage to the heart increasing your risk for other lung infections. Such infections can become fatal if the lungs and heart are unable to provide oxygen and blood to the body’s organs and tissues.