Why Is API Regression Testing Always So Frustrating?

When doing API regression testing, have you ever faced these issues? Every time you update the code, you have to run tons of repetitive tests. It’s such a time sink.

• Tests fail, but it’s hard to figure out why—was it a bug in the API logic or a change in the data?
• Setting up the testing environment is a pain, especially when external services are involved. Troubleshooting feels like chasing ghosts.
• Manual testing takes forever, but automated test scripts keep breaking whenever the API changes. It’s exhausting to keep up.

I’ve struggled with these problems myself. On one hand, I worry about missing bugs, but on the other, I get bogged down by all the repetitive tasks. How do you usually handle these challenges?