It took me several adjustments and masks for my doc to realize that I needed to move from a CPAP to BIPAP. However, my issues were more related to other pulmonary issues I have- I wasn't able to handle constant pressure on the exhale- and the BIPAP has titrated pressure...constant pressure on the inhale, then reduced pressure on the exhale. This removed the feeling like I was suffocating and unable to breathe out.
As for masks, request to try them all (full face, nose only and nasal). After doing this, I found that:
1. with the nose only, I breathe through my mouth at times in the night and it makes this mask style unacceptable. they gave me a chin strap to keep my mouth closed, but it was uncomfortable and too controlling for my liking.
2. with the nasal canula style, I didn't like having the cups stuck up my nose all night. The doc said to goop vasoline on it, but that wouldn't fly with me either. Additionally, it is a hell of a lot of pressure concentrated blowing up your nostrils.
3. After several attempts, I landed on the full face Resmed mask with the gel inserts and adjustable upper bridge. This mask can be uncomfortable at times because it covers a large portion of your face, but it spreads the air pressure out evenly and (after a few months to a year or so) is manageable to wear throughout the night.
It is also important to have a CPAP/BIPAP that has a heated humidifier. This prevents your nose and throat from drying out- which is a big reason why many people don't use their machine as prescribed. Another important area to mention is that you have to clean your gear regularly- I disassemble my mask and soak it, the head strap and the tubing in a mixture of warm to hot water and vinegar. This eliminates bacteria growth and (as long as you rinse the gear out completely) removes any/all odor.
Overall, I agree with many of the posts above- CPAP/BIPAP can save your life and prevent future disease. It takes a while to get used to using it (some people a few months, others over a year). I take my machine with me everywhere I go (vacation, TDY, etc.) because I have severe OSA/mixed- I also have an oxygen concentrator tied in with the BIPAP, but it is too big to to bring outside of the house.
If you are having problems with the machine, don't give up on it! Go back in and have the sleep center get it right/hone it in for you. That is what they get paid to do. Sleep apnea can be a life threatening situation....if you were to decide to camp in bear infested woods, would you risk it and leave your loaded weapon at home?