Bulged Discs

I bulged two discs - L3-L4 in 1987. What generally happens with bulged discs? Do they ever heal, continue to flatten irregularly, leak, etc...

Never had surgery to 'fuse' the vertibrae together as I have heard of some results that were less than anticipated as a satisfactory outcome for some who had this done.

Any comments from any SF Docs or others who have experience with bulged discs appreciated.