Depends upon how much build up is in there.
As always we are trying to make a diagnosis based on the words you typed which is quite difficult.
So if you want me to elp you, pull the muffler off
While you are there check the piston rings for scoring & the cylinder
wall on the other side.
If you don't want help from me then don't do it.
I have a simple rule that I work under on this ( and other ) forums.
I ask people questions
If they don't provide the answers, I don't bother to ask any more questions till they do.
From what you have typed it could be a lot of silly things but I have assumed that you know the difference in the sound of an engine that is choking on it's own exhaust, one that is dieing lean & one that is dieing rich .
You said it seemed to be choking as if the screen was blocked but the screen was not blocked
Well the next thing back from the screen is the exhaust port
While the muffler is off give it a shake and see is some foreign bodies fall out.