I just noticed this thread and am so excited to see so many of you newbie c-pap users. Don't give up - even if it gets discouraging or frustrating some nights.
I have had my machine for over 10 years. (Same machine!) I only had a follow up sleep study this year, because I figured my machine was certainly going to die soon, and knew that I needed a presciption for a new one. Well, my level hadn't changed, and my machine is working fine.
So many of your questions and concerns are familiar, and I can tell you that if you stick with it, you will notice a difference, and your life will change. It will never be 'perfect', but it will provide a dramatic change.
As far as traveling, I would never leave home with out it. My machine has been all over the country, and is ALWAYS with me as carry on luggage. I don't care what anyone says, the machine has never left my side! I've traveled with people who thought it was silly or ridiculous, but it's worth it to me to have it there. Yeah, that means there are places (such as camping) that is not going to be convienent to sleep - but it can be done if the people around you are willing to work with you.
I love naps, and I would never think of laying on the couch for a quick snooze. If I want to sleep for even 5 minutes, I lay down on my bed and quickly put it on. In the beginning, it's frustrating putting it on, but trust me, it will become as easy as putting on your slippers. You'll do it without even thinking.
When I first got my machine, I was 25 and a mom of a four year old. I realized that in the middle of the night I would take it off without realizing it, but once I started working outside the home, I became much more attached to it. And for the past 7 or 8 years, never have taken it off.
There are soooo many people out there with sleep apnea that have no idea that they have it. My uncle died of a heart attack when he was just 53 - had only had the cpap for a year before he died. Sleep apnea, when not treated with a mask, is very dangerous and harmful to your heart. Don't worry what your spouse will think about what you look like. If they truly love you - they will want you to wear it, because you need it. They wouldn't question you for taking a certain medication if needed it would they?
Before I got my machine, I couldn't stay awake driving even for 10 minutes in the car sometimes. In fact, my apnea was so bad that the morning after my first test, when the doctor go to the hospital that morning (after I had left) he was so conerned about me that he called to make sure I got home that morning. He said I had one of the worst cases he'd seen. At that point, he said I shouldn't even be driving, ever. So, yes, I encourage everyone i suspect who might have a problem with sleep apnea to seek treatment immediately. Literally, it could save your life!