Katescot wrote:We don't use gags of any sort because Paul is mildly asthmatic and we've always felt the risk of an attack or choking are too great. Are we being over protective?
I think you can use a ball gag safely if a) you are always at hand to remove it if there is a problem, and b) you don't use one that is absolutely as big as can possibly fit in his mouth. Even a very large ball gag does not completely seal the mouth all by itself; air can be drawn in around the edges.
Even allowing for the possibility that he will need more of an opening if he is starting to suffer an attack, I believe you can play with a smaller ball. There are also gags specifically designed for people who need to breathe through their mouths. See for example:
http://www.sub-shop.com/Drool-Gag.aspxIf you want to be absolutely sure, I'd recommend starting out by having him put the gag in but without buckling it or having him restrained in any other way. See if he can hold it for, say, half an hour. But he can remove it himself instantly if there is a problem. Once you are certain that he can tolerate the gag in his mouth for a reasonable period without triggering an attack, you can then start to play with the gag fastened in placed and his hands restrained - remembering, of course, to remain in close proximity at all times so that you can respond quickly if an attack does come on.
Frankly, I suspect the larger problem will be the saliva, not the asthma, especially if he's on his back. If he's sitting or standing, he can always tilt his head down and drool - not elegant, perhaps, but it avoids choking. I can manage to swallow even with a very large ball in my mouth, but I'm not sure that everyone can. Again, you'll just have to try it and see.