[Equipment] Should I buy a CPAP machine quickly? (UK)

[Ploppy]

Hi!  Some background:

• I think that I have had sleep apnoea for years.  It has very recently got worse; I keep waking up in the night (and have problems getting back to sleep).
  
• I am in the UK.  I saw my GP and was put on the waiting list for my local NHS sleep centre (Papworth).
  
• I found out that its waiting time is 7-8 months, so I went private and got a WatchPAT sleep test from thebettersleepclinic.co.uk.
  
• I have just got the results back: "Your AHI was 44.2, which indicates severe OSA".
  
• I have got a consultation with a doctor (NHS sleep consultant) from thebettersleepclinic.co.uk scheduled for 12th September.
  

The thing is, I am going on holiday abroad from 4th-10th September.  It is quite an expensive holiday with lots of concerts and walks.  I am worried that I will fall asleep during the concerts and generally not be able to enjoy things because I am too tired.

The thebettersleepclinic.co.uk sells the "AutoSet CPAP - Sefam S.Box", which looking on here doesn't seem to be a particularly good model.  (Maybe because this is used in the NHS and they are used to it, being NHS doctors?)

Is it worth me even considering trying to buy a different CPAP machine so that I can use it on holiday?  The timelines are pretty tight.  Is it practical to take a machine away with you?  How long does it take to get used to one?  Can you even buy a CPAP machine in the UK without a formal diagnosis?  Does a WatchPAT report from a "clinical scientist" count as a diagnosis?

Thank you if you have had the patience to read this far.

[PeaceLoveAndPizza]

Regarding your trip, I suggest focusing on sleep hygiene rather than rushing into purchasing a CPAP device that may or may not help. Try the usual things like consistent bed times, no eating or drinking 2-3 hours before bed, no caffeine after lunch, learn to relax before bed by turning off screens/telly/phones, ease up on alcohol consumption, etc. Avoid naps if you can but if you have to nap nothing longer than 20-30 mins.

Getting adjusted to CPAP is a process, not an overnight miracle. Even if you acquired one you will likely spend some time frustrated as you dial in your settings with the help of this forum. 

Enjoy your holiday! Don’t overthink things, just relax and have fun. When you get back see what the sleep consultant has to say and post the results to get the best help from the forum.

[Ploppy]

Thanks, PeaceLoveAndPizza.  That sounds like very good advice.  Will do.  I will start another thread about what to ask the consultant.